The PURPLE GOLDFISH PROJECT: 1001 Examples of Lagniappe
PLEASE RT —>
I need your help. I’m desperately seeking a purple goldfish. . .
I’m in search of 1001 Examples of Marketing Lagniappe for the book, What’s Your Purple Goldfish.
A marketing lagniappe, i.e. purple goldfish, is any time a business goes above and beyond to provide a ‘little something extra’. It’s that unexpected surprise that’s thrown in.
Here are the basic ingredients / r.u.l.e.s of a purple goldfish:
Relevant, Unexpected, Limited, Expression and Sticky.
5 examples / thought starters:
- Southwest Airlines – Grab you bag . . it’s on. Southwest doesn’t charge for bags
- TD Bank – TD Bank has a penny arcade in their lobby, a free service to all who want to exchange coins
- Five Guys Burgers and Fries – Free peanuts while you wait and extra fries with your order (lots of them)
- Stew Leonard’s – Buy $100 or more of groceries, the register MOO’s and you get a free ice cream or coffee
- Doubletree Hotels - Complimentary warm chocolate chip cookie when you check-in
- Zappos - Free upgrade of your shipping to next day
REWARD – For each of the first 1,001 examples of lagniappe I will donate a non-perishable food item to the Thomas Merton Center. The Merton Center is a soup kitchen in Bridgeport, CT that not only provides food, but other programs that help people move out of poverty to become self sufficient.
In addition – each Purple Goldfish example will be featured on the website and the best examples will be featured in my upcoming book.
3 easy ways to contribute:
- e-mail me your Purple Goldfish to sphelps [at] synergyevents.com
- click the CONTACT button in the header above
- or write a comment on this page including your Purple Goldfish
Bonus: If your ‘purple goldfish’ makes it into the book in 2010 . . . you will receive a complimentary signed copy.
Which brands have made the cut?
(here is the alphabetical list of the first 501)
Click on the links for the following numbers in the Project:
1-76 77-139 140 – 202 203-255 256-323 324-383 384-445 445 -501
[A] ABT Electronics #391, adidas #204, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital #476, Aqua Pools #80, Acura (Bridgewater, NJ) #97, Advantage Cleaners #322, AJ Bombers #152, Alaska Stock Images #440, Alligator Lounge #205, Amazon #51+165+441, American Express #297+415, American Girl #112, America’s Tire #412, Amica Insurance #428, Anne Perschel #350, AOL #257, Arby’s #227, Arigato Sushi #355, Audi #133, Apple #147+237+370, Aveda Spa & Salon #160, Avis #490
[B] Bank of the Islands #244, Bar 89 #230, Bar Breton #477, Baron Funds #73, Baskin Robbins #484, Beaver Creek Resort #129, Bed Bath & Beyond #85, Ben & Jerry’s #4+13, Bergdorf Goodman #329, Besito #238+239, Bespeak Presentation Solutions #270, Best Buy #474, Bigelow Tea #378, Bill Coleman Entertainment #267, Bistro Montage #226, Blimpy Burger #281, Bloom Processing #217, Blues City Memphis Cafe #292, Blue Ridge Soap Shed #266, BLT Steakhouse #182, BMW (Circle NJ) #72+150 (Bridgeport CT) #190 (Darien, CT), Blue Salon #326, Bob Magruder #298, Bob’s Discount Furniture #126+398+399, Body Evolution #343, Bolt Bus #278, Bona Bros #356, bosc Marketing Muscle #139, Bose #421, Brandeis University #242, Bridgeton Hotel #89, Broadview Hotel #442, Brock University #346, Bruster’s #419, Busse Automotive #331, Hotel Burnham #141, Butler’s Dry Cleaning #405
[C] Cafe Ibis #409, Cafe Luxemborg #496, Calise’s Delicatessan, Campus Advantage #464+465+466+467+468, Canyon Cafe #159, Capital Grille #122+438, Capitol Photo Interactive #274, Caribou Coffee #2, Carnival Cruise Line #64+208, Carter’s #27, Cartridge World #249, Chaffin’s Plumbing #360, Chegg #235, Chicken Delicatessan #127, Chick-fil-a #125, Chipotle #301, Chobee #261, Chocopologie #406, Citizen’s Bank #33, Classic Barber of Greenwich #157, Classic Shine Detailing #82, Clayton’s Automotive #372, Clement Marketplace #209, Coca-Cola #186, Comcast #381, Conference Call Unlimited #339, Cosi #32+206, Costco #216, Courtyard by Marriott #57, Croc’s #184, CuisinArt Resort & Spa #284, Cum Laude #243, Customer Connection Co. #420
[D] Dancing Elephants #247, Danny Meyer #403, Dave Carroll #340, David Yurman #327, Dedrick’s Pharmacy and Gifts, Del Frisco’s Steak House #118, Del Taco #451, Delta Shuttle #361, Demas #173, Denny’s #7, Descend Salon #394, DIAGEO #413, Diamond Cabs #81, Discount Tires #408, Disney #12+149+171+228, Distinctive Homes #254, Domino’s #237, Donna Spears #325, Doris & Ed’s #318, Doubletree Hotels #5+#16+30+276+500, Dr. Drysdale #197, Dr. Greg Preston #169, Dry Cleaning Factory #90, Dunkin Donuts #338
[E] El Bandito #400, endless.com #181, Enterprise Rental Car #105, Entertainment Weekly #264, Enviro Express #84, ESPN Zone #334, Ethan Allen #102, etsy.com #188, Equinox #259, Exclusive Resorts #119
[F] Fairfield Granite #59, Fairfield Inn #387, Fairmont Copley Plaza #288, Fairfield Lumber #448, Fat Cat Pie Company #231, Father & Son’s #43, Fjeldheim #268, FIG #473, Fiji Water #462, Fillmore San Francisco #37, Finger Nail Salon #28, Firebox.com #70, Fiskars #353, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Foam + Wash #121, Ford #155, Fort Wayne International Airport #176, Four Seasons Hotels #192+218, Four Seasons Kuda Hara #304, Fresh Direct #359, Friendly’s #75+418, Fromagerie Rumson #163, Frontier #222, Fuddruckers #280, Functional Fitness #263
[G] Gallery Furniture #62, Gans Ink #501, GAP #55, Garden Catering #471, Good Giving #21, Google #46, Graegle Hardware #354, Grand Central Racquet #63, Grateful Dead #310, Great Harvest Bakery #383, Green Dragon Herbals #255, Grooming by Debbie #104, Ground Round #53, Gumba’s #336
[H] Hard Rock Cafe #26, Harley Davidson #178, Heights Restaurant #31, Heineken #307, Herman Miller #158, High Voltage Tattoo #151, Home Warranty #201, Horizon Air #78, Hotel Erwin #287, Hotel Gansevoort #282, Hotel Max #285, Hotel Monaco #290+395, Hotel Murano #185, HUB Plumbing & Mechanical #324, Hotel Vitale #194, HSBC #145, Hyatt #10+146
[I] IKEA #41+147 + 191, Ikedas #35, Insomnia Cookies #29, ITHF #240, iTreadmill #371
[J] J-six #207, Jansport #435, Jason Deli #199, Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar #313, Jesse’s Toys #212, Jet Blue #19+352+375+414, John Allen’s #68, John’s Barber Shop #77, John’s Pizzeria #316, Joie de Vivre Hotels #492, Josh Early Candies #225, Julien McRoberts #253
[K] Kid City #88, Kimpton Hotels #109+#110, K-Mart #366, Krispy Kreme #18
[L] La Mela #470, Landers Chrysler Jeep #347, Landmarc Restaurant #495, Land’s End #128, Langhorne Hotel #24,Las Ventana al Paraiso #236, Le Foret #494, Lenscrafters #312, Les Schwab #17+156+302, Lexus #1+23+48+69+200+348+367+427+434, Lightspan Digital #311, Lisloughrey Lodge #286, Listel #99, Little Nell #98, liveGLOCAL #432, Los Cabos #87,Louisiana Lagniappe #469, Louisiana Territory #379, Lou Mitchell’s #83, Lowe’s #491, Lovefilm.com #108, Lozano Car Wash #130, LUSH #189
[M] Macy’s #328, Maroni Cuisine #223, Mario’s Barber Shop #47, Martin + Osa #86, Max Motor’s #224, Marriott #410, Martin Guitar #60, Maxwell House #183, McDonald’s #8+44+100+114, McLellan Marketing Group #136+137+138, Mealey’s #214+215, Mermaid Inn #429, Metropolis Performing Arts Center #332, Midwest Airlines #142, MIP #168, Mitchell’s #450, Moe’s Southwest Grill #269, Mount Gay Rum #488, MTA #260
[N] National Car Rental #330, Native Eyewear #58, Neiman Marcus #475, Netflix #445, New Belgium Brewery #162, New Horizons #499, New Jersey #132, NINJA #111, New York Sportimes #463, Nordstrom #314+430+436, Northwest Airlines #106, Nurse Next Door #437
[O] Odwalla #198, Ogori Cafe #203, Ola Granola #291, Olive Garden #279, 1-800-Pet-Meds #479, Opus Hotel #289, Orbitz #482, Oscar Mayer #362, Oxford Stuff #135, Outagamit Airport #180, Outback #294, Overstock #166
[P] Pacific Cafe #143, Palomino #489, Pampered Hand Salon #396, Panera #45+#50 + #154, Paradise Music #251, Paste Magazine #34, Patriot Bank #61, Paul Dunay ‘Facebook Marketing for Dummies’ #309, Peabody Hotel #113, Pepperidge Farm #134, Peet’s Coffee & Tea #299, PHD #219, Peter Millar #446+461, PGA Tour #483, Pixar #470, Philadelphia Cream Cheese #485, Pizza Express #363, Pizza Shuttle #221, Plaza Cleaners #123, Port Columbus Airport #179, Porter Airlines #300, Pot Belly Sandwiches #480, Prince #385, Principled Profit #248, Publix #96+117, Puente Aereo #433, Purchasing Power #196
[Q] Quinta Real #305
[R] Ralph’s #167, Redbox #380, Redeye Grill NYC #79, Reef Sandals #277, Reno – Tahoe Aiport #177, Rich Life Marketing #256, Rimsky Korsakoffee #229, Rita’s Water Ice #384, Rite Aid #364, Ritz Carlton Hotel #443, Rod Oglesby Realty #153, Roger Smith Hotel #174, Russell Speeder’s Car Wash #321
[S] Sage Valley Country Club #120, Saladworks #425, Salute #401, Sam Adams #487, Sanderson Group #246, Schering Plough #373, Scooter’s Coffee #342, Scrub a Dub #6, Sears #365, Seaworld #344+345, See’s Candy #417, Sephora #101, Shelter Harbor Inn #481, Sheraton #411, 6pm.com #407, Skin Perfect #265, Skooba Design #389, Sky Lake Hospital #187, Slay’s on Main #172, SNY #296, Snip-its #404, Sonic #459, Southwest Airlines #93, Speck #175, Splash Car Wash #67+453, Sports Illustrated #497, Sportsvite #282, Staples #241, Starbucks #9+20+36+40+351+376, Stew Leonard’s #91+124+431, Subway #39, Success Tutoring #276, Sun Chips #335, Super Food Town #71, Susan Wendy Salon #357, Sushi Time #164
[T] Taos Resort #423, TD Bank #49+76+92+454+455+456+457+458, TGI Friday’s #213, Tiffany #232, Thai Basil #306, The “21″ Club, Thomas Boston #445, Thomas J. Walsh Contracting #250, Timbuk2 #392, Tim Coffey #65, Tipsy Parson #388, Tom Quick Inn #210, Tom’s Shoes #3, Tony’s #382, Tory Burch #393, Town Fair Tire #452, Toyboat Desserts Cafe #144, Toys R Us #15, Toyzam #115+131, Trader Joe’s #42+161+320+374
[U] Umpqua Bank, United Airlines #386+422+439, UPS #211+486, USAA #56, US Postal #14
[V] Velocity #174, Via Rail #341, Village Market #233, Vinny’s Deli & Pasta #424, Virgin America #358, Viva Zapata #447, VW (New Country Greenwich) #193
[W] Waldorf Astoria #402, Warrug #262, Wayzata Dental #369, Wawa #317, Wegman’s #116, Wells Fargo #38, Westminster Hotel #74, Whole Foods #11+22+258+315, William Austin’s Antiques #308, Wilson’s #333, WineLibrary.com #170, Wordsmith Writing #390, W South Beach #283
[Z] Zane’s Cycles #460, Zappo’s #107+195+319+349+397+493, Zea Rotisserie & Grill #478
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From Jerry Prior III
#77. Hey Stan, Been keeping up with the blog, good work. I’ve got a purple goldfish for you. Haven’t been there, but others from my office go. Leather couches, Plasma TV, and a self serve keg in the back while you wait.
John’s Barber Shop
126 South State Street
Newtown, PA
267-364-5251
#78. From Marcia Hoover of Chamberlain Consulting
The best one I can think of is Horizon Air – the regional affiliate for Alaska Airlines. They have always served free beer and wine to all passengers on their flights. Given today’s economy and stifling service in the airline industry Horizon definitely stands out as a marketing lagniappe.
#79 From Lonny Sweet
Just had lunch at the Red Eye Grille in NYC and to top off the meal, they just came around with fresh, just out of the oven, oatmeal cookies…free of charge. Nice little added touch.
#80 From Mary Ann Baehr
Jim Cloud—-Owner of Aqua Pools (his business offers pool supplies and maintenance). Jim was showing me his newest location, which is still under construction. It will include a large conference room which will have mixed use. Jim explained that among the uses will be a “client appreciation” event. Twice a year Jim hosts a FREE session for new and existing customers on the “basics of opening and closing pools” (what TO DO and what NOT to do). Jim described it as extremely well received and appreciated, resulting in retaining his customers and often selling additional pool supplies (Jim also offers a 25% discount on supplies for the attendees).
#81. From Walter Turskey
I am in Phoenix, AZ for work and called the Diamond Cab Company and they sent Tom.
During my travels I take cabs about 4 to 6 times a week I really hate cabs for so many reasons. Today’s ride stood out to me, Tom my driver met me with a smile opened my door and introduced himself and asked my name. Once in his cab he wanted to make sure I was comfortable, he would adjust the heat, to my comfort level, he then proceeded to tell me of upcoming events in and around the Phoenix area. I think that what struck me was that his world class customer service came easy to him; I felt like I was talking to an old friend and have a much improved outlook on cab drivers.
#82. From Stan Phelps about Anthony Covello
During the first 5+ years of Classic Shine of Greenwich, owner Anthony Covello would call each customer the day after their cars were serviced. It was a small personal touch that conveyed he cared and to insure the customer was completely satisfied.
#83. From Simon Green of CAA
There are reasons native Chicagoans and tourists alike consider Lou Mitchell’s a must-visit — from the donut holes while you wait to the double-yolk eggs that make every dish even more sinfully indulgent, Lou’s knows how to do breakfast. Located in the South Loop, the restaurant has been a Chicago institution since 1923, and decades later, they’re still dishing out thick French toast, enormous platters of pancakes, fresh-baked pastries, and of course, those famous skillets. The extras are just as delectable. Lou’s boasts pure maple syrup, fresh-squeezed orange juice and slabs of toast served with every omelet. Be prepared to make some new friends — chances are good you’ll be seated next to strangers at one of the lengthy tables. Even if you don’t bond with fellow diners, the employees’ perpetually friendly smiles — and free Milk Duds for the ladies — guarantee that you’ll want to return soon.
#84 From Bill Malone
At his business ‘Enviro Express’ Bill and his team hand out cube notepads (see example http://www.crobike.de/en/werbemittel_bilder/promopeddler/8900/19620.jpg ) to both clients and prospects. A small touch that is appreciated by his customers. Bill’s ‘gift’ stays atop the desk of his client. Guess who is top of mind when his customers need his services?
#85 from Jennifer Delaney
I’ve got a good Purple Goldfish for you – Bed, Bath & Beyond regularly sends out coupon mailers for 30% off a single item. What I recently found out is two things: one, is that they never expire, even though there’s an expiration date listed on every one. Two, is that you can use more than one at a time, regardless of what it says on the coupon! So, I save those suckers up and go in with a handful of them! It’s great!!
#86. From David Ackerman
Martin + Osa has a nice little Purple Goldfish. They offer you a complimentary bottle of water when you are shopping in the store. Not just an ordinary 8 ounce bottle . . . they give you a decent sized bottle of FIJI. Tres bon.
#87 and #88 from Jenn Phelps
#87. Our local mexican restaurant ‘Los Cabos’ in Norwalk has complimentary chips. That’s pretty regular fare for a Mexican joint, but this small touch takes it a step further. First – the chips always come out piping hot. Second – each person at the table gets there own salsa bowl in which you can dole out your salsa via a handy little salsa carafe.
Bonus: On the weekends they have a mariachi band that goes from table to table.
#88. Kid City is a children’s museum in Middletown, CT. They keep the bathrooms stocked with diapers, wipes, pull-ups and kids care items. Totally free of charge and always appreciated by Mom’s and Dad’s alike.
From Fran McTamney
#89. Bridgeton House Bed & Breakfast in Upper Black Eddy, Pa. provided us, as return tenants, with a surprise gift wrapped box of specialty soaps to use or take with us and a note reading “Welcome Back” for our second stay there. After check out we received a “Thank You” email and a $50 gift certificate toward our next stay there. Nice unexpected touches.
#90. The Dry Cleaning Factory in Levittown, Pa. dry cleans my clothes at no charge once a year on the week of my birthday. Another nice touch.
A few good ‘purple goldfishes’ that I wanted to officially get on the record:
#91. Spend $100 or more at Stew Leonard’s and you receive a free ice cream or cup of coffee
#92 . TD Bank has a penny arcade which allows everyone to exchange their coins for free. TD Bank also deserves a ‘purple goldfish’ for being open 7 days a week. Their marketing lagniappe is all about convenience.
#93. Southwest and Jet Blue do not charge for bags. Sometimes it’s not only what you give . . . but what you decide not to charge for that gets you a purple goldfish.
#94. Five Guys Burgers & Fries offers free peanuts while you wait in line. Plus they give you extra fries with your order . . . lots of them.
From Micky Baehr
#95. Center Valley G.C. in PA gives a free round of golf on your birthday
#96. In South Florida, Publix store clerks ask if you’d like your groceries carried out to your car.
From Kevin Hanft
#97. Bridgewater, NJ Acura – Free coffee, soft drinks, snacks and wireless in the waiting area. Loaner car for all scheduled service. Free car wash & vacuum whenever the car goes in for service.
#98. Little Nell Hotel – Aspen, CO – Coffee and treats at all times in the boot room. At the end of the skiing day, the Ski Concierge meets you at the bottom of the lift, collects your skis and poles and puts them in a drying room. Overnight ski waxing, upon request.
#99. Listel Hotel – Vancouver, BC – Complimentary wine-tasting every evening, featuring local wines.
#100 McDonald’s. Just watched a commercial from McD’s. For a limited time the Golden Arches is giving away ‘a little something extra’. With every extra value meal they are giving away vintage Coke glasses. Looks like there are 7 different colors. http://www.everyday.com.my/photo/2009/9/FREE-Coca-Cola-Glass-at-McDonald-s.jpg
Nice – a little extra value with the ‘extra value meal’.
McD Lagniappe – here is at tip. Order your fries at McD’s with no salt. That guarantees they come out ‘piping hot’. Ask for salt packets and sodium them up as you see fit.
#101. When you purchase from Sephora.com you can choose 3 free samples to ship with your order. This is a great way to try new products without a financial commitment.
#102. We were overwhelmed looking for furniture for our 1st house. Ethan Allen was great in that we talked to the consultant about our likes then she came out to our home, measured and figured out several configurations and ideas for us in our price range.
#103. In Darien there is a Sushi restaurant that not only has amazing food, they offer hot towelettes to wipe your hands before your meal. That’s a first!
#104. Grooming by Debbie does such a great job grooming our dog. Not only did she take the time to research our unusual breed to determine how to give him the proper cut, she always puts a cute kerchief around his neck and gives him dog biscuits at pick up time.
#105. Enterprise Rental Car – They are proud of their signature lagniappe. They’ll pick you up or drop you off for free.
#106 Northwest Airlines – I missed my flight connection in Memphis which necessitated a 5+ hour delay in the airport. When I reached the rebooking counter they handed me a printed out boarding pass for the next flight with a meal voucher, an apology with an offer of 1,000 free frequent flyer miles and a coupon for $25 off my next flight. A few nice small touches.
From Brian Fisher of Conde Nast
#107. Hey, my wife just caught a purple goldfish. Zappos.com just gave her overnight shipping on a pair of shoes for free (out of the blue). She had them in less than 24 hours.
#108. I’m nominating Lovefilm.com, in the UK.
1) In November there were a number of postal strikes that led to huge mail delays. In response to this LoveFilm gave all it’s subcribers a free rental;
2) each year on the birthday of my subcription I get a free rental;
3) there is no limit to the number of times I can suspend my account, which is great for me as I travel often, and
4) they frequently pop in discount vouchers from retailers I actually use.
Thanks Ola. It looks like Lovefilm gets a bunch of little things right. You can tell they are very customer-centric.
Great example.
#109. Kimpton hotels do all kinds of lagniappe-ish things –
Free Starbucks coffee and tea in the morning; Cookies and / or fruit always available in lobby.
Free wine reception with pretty good and often interesting wines each evening. At Hotel Monaco in SF, they often have Tarot card reader or other added entertainment.
There’s always free wireless internet access that works well. (Should be a standard but is not at most hotels…)
Buildings, themes, decoration, art and lobby architecture always different. Rooms have many unique styles, but you know that the beds, amenities, service will be at a similar standard in all.
They are proactively kid and pet friendly.
Their signature special lagniappe is the goldfish you can bring to your room to keep you company. I think they still do it at several of their hotels.
Here’s the URL for the Kimpton Guppy Love program:
http://www.kimptonhotels.com/pdfs/pet/Pet-PR-Guppy-Love-Program.pdf
And the URL for their services: http://www.kimptonhotels.com/services/services.aspx
#110. Another shot of Kimpton:
Kimpton is picking up the tab for airline charges that may apply when you check a second bag. Simply show proof of an airline baggage charge when you check in at any Kimpton hotel in the U.S. and Canada, and we’ll issue a room credit for one bag, up to $25, offsetting this cost for air travelers.*
“At Kimpton, we believe that small gestures go a long way toward making us the best loved hotel company in the country,” said Mike Depatie, president and CEO of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. “With the We’ve Got Your Bag program we aim to extend care for people who stay with us beyond our hotels to other aspects of the travel experience.”
#111 (a.k.a French Fries) courtesy of Jim MacCurtain at the NBA
At this Tribeca Japanese restaurant, Ninjas guide diners through a series of twists and turns, across a drawbridge, and, finally, to cave-like tables, performing “magic” tricks along the way, elevating a tasty meal to a rewarding and memorable experience.
http://ninjanewyork.com
#112 Courtesy of Darran Miner
A purple goldfish for you – The American Girl store in NYC – outstanding customer service
I went there a couple of years ago with a list of items my wife provided. Having never been to the store before, I asked the sales rep where the Kit doll was. She asked if I had any other items I needed so I showed her the list. She took it and within five minutes was back with everything I needed and I was out the door. And this was during the holiday season!
Fast forward to this past Saturday I am back in the store with my wife and a mental list (since the wife was with me there was no need to write anything down) of items we are looking for. The line was long to get in the store but moved very quickly. Once inside the store, it was packed – people everywhere! Hardly room to walk. Mom’s with their daughters who are carrying their dolls. Dads in the corner trying to stay out of the way. And then there is me standing in the middle of it enjoying my best retail experience of the holiday season. While my wife was poking around looking at stuff, I relayed the list of items to the sales rep working the floor and she brought me everything. Once the pile got too big she even brought me over a couple of shopping bags to make it easier to carry them. I am telling you – this was hands down the best holiday shopping experience ever. Paying the bill was another story . . .
Stan,
Pleasure meeting you today at the Washington, DC PRSA event. I think I found you a Purple Goldfish.
#113. Peabody Hotel Group. I stayed at the Orlando, FL Peabody Hotel and I had enjoyable stay. What makes Peabody Hotels stand out from other hotels is their ducks! Being a person who enjoys the outdoors, I thought watching ducks walk down a red carpet, through the lobby of a hotel and hop right into a beautiful marble fountain for a swim was fun to watch and certainly a unique hotel experience. Here’s some additional information taken from the hotel site which talks about how the Peabody Hotel/Duck relationship came to be:
http://www.peabodyhotelgroup.com/peabody_hotels/peabody_duck.cfm
Best regards,
Andrew
#114 From Jeff Mard of Horizon Marketing Group
McDonald’s will begin to offer Free WiFi in January. http://mashable.com/2009/12/15/mcdonalds-free-wifi-2/
#115 Toyzam
I was visiting Santa today at the Westfield Mall in Trumbull, CT. Came across a toy store called Toyzam. Toyzam has a nice purple goldfish. Many of the toys sold required batteries. Toyzam gives free batteries for any toy that is battery operated with purchase.
#116. My Purple Goldfish is Wegman’s. I had been in my nearest Wegman’s a couple times and was overwhelmed by the selection and prices. On my third trip there, I asked at the customer service desk if they had a “Shopper’s Club” card that I could apply for. They gave me a form at the desk, I filled it out, handed it to the friendly woman at the counter, and went off to do some shopping. As I’m checking out for the first time with my new Wegman’s card, not more than 10 minutes after signing up, an e-mail from Wegman’s pops up on my PDA with a coupon for that day’s purchase. I’ve never experienced a faster loyalty/customer program.
#117. From Marlon LeWinter
Publix offers free antibiotics. Walk in with your prescription and they’ll give you a 14 day supply for free. No limit on refills or additional orders. http://www.publix.com/about/newsroom/NewsReleaseItem.do?newsReleaseItemPK=2636
From Rob Johnson (a.k.a ROJO)
#118. Del Friscos Steak House – Take food to your car before you leave from valet
#119. Exclusive Resorts – ski passes on the counter upon arrival, food in the refrigerator, luggage service (no need to travel with luggage)
#120. Sage Valley Country Club – polish your shoes during your round of golf, then polish your golf shoes when you return
Hi Stan,
Tyler Trieste submits the following:
#121. Foam & Wash – Vails Gate, NY.
Free car wash with oil change. And free drinks – soda and coffee from soda fountain and coffee machine while you wait.
#122 From Sharlene Sones
Hope your trip to cajun country was a good one! So, In the midst of shoveling, here’s one that came to mind:
Capital Grille. (http://thecapitalgrille.com) A friend of mine was telling me that last week he and a small group of friends/work colleagues went to Capital Grille in Philadelphia to celebrate the holidays. Capital Grille is (depending on your budget) fairly pricey and promises an elegant and exceptional dining experience (their words). Unfortunately, this evening didn’t quite live up to that promise. The diners had a wait to get to their table (despite a reservation) and apparently, there were a few other snafus during the course of the evening. It was, in the words of my friend, “nothing exceptionally bad. Just not perfect or very special.”
The next day, my friend received a voicemail from Capital Grille. He didn’t return the call, thinking that “they must be calling for some sort of follow up survey purpose.” Another day later, he picked up the phone to find the caller was the manager of the restaurant. The manager explained that he was distressed to discover that their experience was less than stellar and didn’t live up to Capital Grille’s promise. He then offered up a gift certificate for their next visit to the restaurant. What’s really amazing is that the waiter realized that the diner’s experience was not up to par and told the manager, who took swift action. We aren’t even sure exactly how Capital Grille figured out how to reach them (credit card? reservation number?).
The result? My friend is now a loyal customer and advocate for Capital Grille. Smart investment on their part — and a wise choice to own up to misgivings in a way that reinforce the brand story that is Capital Grille.
#123. From Blue Young
Plaza Cleaners. I think it counts, though it’s not so typical. They will clean someone’s suit for free if they’re unemployed and need the suit for a job interview. Does that fit your criteria? Look here…
http://applicant.com/how-one-business-is-helping-the-unemployed/
#124. From Jennifer Phelps
Stew Leonard’s
how about the Santa at Stew’s? He is there everyday from 3-6 during the week and more hours on the weekend. Your kids can sit on his lap and you can take photos then the kids get a candycane. During the year Clover the Cow comes around giving hugs to all the little ones, she hands out jellybeans during Easter and during Halloween she hands out Halloween candy on the hay ride. I just love Stew’s!
#125 From Rob Johnson (aka ROJO)
Chick-fil-a
When you go through the drive thru they include tasty mints in your bag.
#126 From Jim Reinwald
Bob’s Discount Furniture
I was not looking forward to how many times I was going to be asked, “are we done yet” by my 11 year old while shopping for a bedroom set at Bob’s. I was pleasantly surprised to find that while filling out paperwork etc.. the store has a small arcade with a number of popular games that are free of charge to occupy their time. The store also offers free ice cream, cookies, drinks, coffee and penny candy to all it’s visitors. And the furniture is reasonably priced as well, it’s worth a visit.
#127. From Chris Grayson
The Chicken Delicatessan @ 42 E. 28th St. in New York.
“I would regularly order two sushi rolls (tuna and avocado, inside out – no sesame). After recognizing me as a regular customer the sushi chef would add one piece of a la carte tuna sushi in each of my rolls”
#128 From Kristin Spurley
Lands End . . . their guarantee and service qualify as purple goldfish.
Guaranteed. Period.® If you’re not happy with your purchase, simply return it for a refund or replacement. http://www.landsend.com
#129. Beaver Creek Ski Resort
Every day at 3pm, Beaver Creek’s cookie time chefs serve hot, chocolate chip cookies at the base of the Centennial Chairlift (Chair #6). The perfect ending to a perfect day.
#130. From Wendy Lewis
Lozano Car Wash in Palo Alto, CA
The carwash that I go to has a popcorn machine and there is always free popcorn and lemonade while you wait.
#131. I was reading post number #115 which mentioned the free batteries with the purchase of any battery operated toy at ToyZam!
They missed one other lagniappe/purple goldfish at ToyZam! This awesome store also gives everyone a free coloring book with their purchase as well! When I thanked the cashier and mentioned that I have 3 children, she smiled and handed me TWO MORE free coloring books! What a great experience during the mad holiday shopping season! This store is bright, cheery, colorful, friendly and INSISTS that you go ahead and play with the toys! Awesome experience!
#132. From Jay Silva of Synergy Events
You wont believe this, but it’s straight from the Garden State.
As we traveled the Garden State Parkway on December 24th, I thought I saw an information board offering free coffee or tea at a Service Stop. Would you know it, 30 plus miles later, it was “confirmed” another board with the message, “take a break stay awake and enjoy a free cup of coffee or tea “. Apparently all Parkway Service Stops extended this offer.
The only thing I can say is, “Forgetta Bout It”, go Jersey!
#133. From David Meerman Scott
http://www.herbchambers.com/ou/burlington-audi/
After a service, your Audi is returned having been washed. It’s unexpected (at first) and really appreciated.
#134. Pepperidge Farms Factory Store in Norwalk, CT
I was at the Pepperidge Farms Factory store yesterday picking up some things. There was a senior citizen standing in front of me in line buying a few items. Her total bill was $9.96. The clerk informed her that all purchases over ten dollars received a 20% discount and asked her if she’d like to pick out something else. Quickly she made a b-line to the Milano’s (good choice) which essentially were free once he factored in the discount. I could tell she left with a smile on her face and a bounce in her step.
Those Milano’s were an unexpected surprise and I can almost guarantee you that she will recount that story a few times. Turns out the folks at Pepperidge Farm make purple goldfishes both literally and figuratively.
http://www.pondmessenger.com/pondmessenger/enews/images/0004039_190.jpg
#135 Courtesy of Judy @nofearentertain
I noticed a couple of tweets between Judy and @oxfordfalls. Judy was thanking Oxford for throwing in an extra bottle for her to try with her order. @oxfordfalls is a purveyour of Bloody Mary mixes and hails from the great state of Mississippi. A nice little bit of lagniappe from the folks at http://oxfordstuff.com
From Drew McLellan of MMG http://mclellanmarketing.com from his post on marketing lagniappe http://www.drewsmarketingminute.com/2009/12/whats-your-marketing-lagniappe.html
Let me give you a few examples from the McLellan Marketing Group culture:
#136. Fresh baked cookies: If you come to a meeting at MMG, you’re going to be served warm (fresh from the oven) M&M cookies. An added dash of double lagniappe — the M&Ms in the cookies are only the three colors (purple, green & orange) from the MMG logo.
#137. Who Loves Ya Baby Day? For years, we’ve had an internal celebration for Valentine’s Day called Who Loves Ya Baby Day (think Telly Savalas for those of you old enough to remember Kojak). Now — we share that celebration with our MMG clients. On Valentine’s Day — each client receives a special Valentine’s treat with a note from us — telling them how much we love them. Yup — love them. If we don’t love them, we don’t want to work with them.
#138. Charity Adoption: Every year, as an agency we put out an RFP (last year we have over 50 applicants) and adopt a charity for an entire year. We ask some of our vendors to join us and in total, the charity will receive over $100,000 of marketing counsel, design, help and stuff.
Greetings, Interesting, did you plan to continue this article?
Thanks
Kicker
Hey Kicker,
The plan is to continue until I reach at least 1,001 examples. Have you seen any purple goldfish?
Best,
Stan
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