7-Eleven in Holiday Spirit

DALLAS7-Eleven Inc., operator of more than 5,700 convenience stores in the United States and Canada, hopes to make its customers' holiday season a little easier this year, or at the very least, a little cheaper by giving away millions of "Holidays Made Easy" coupon books.Customers who purchase at least $5 in merchandise or 10 gallons of gas will receive free one of the three 12-page books, each offering more than $10 in savings on top-selling products.The books also have a "peel and reveal" game piece on the back cover for a chance to win free prizes. Prizes include a free 12-ounce cup of coffee, $20 phone cards; $20 Citgo gas cards; AT&T Free2Go Wireless packages with Nokia phone; or a 5.5- inch battery-operated portable television. Coupons are good through Jan. 31, 2002."Holidays are hectic, and convenience is at a premium," said Bob Merz, director of marketing for 7-Eleven. "This is a quick and easy way for us to say thank you to our customers for their business, and give them a reason to stop by again for a free cup of coffee or to save money on their next purchase."The coupon books will offer coupons from manufacturers like Coca- Cola, AT&T Wireless, Haagen-Dazs, Tropicana, General Mills, Minute Maid, Nabisco, M&M/Mars, Reese's, Planters, Energizer and Kodak. "We teamed up with manufacturers to offer savings on products that are year-round best-sellers at 7-Eleven like beverages and snacks," Merz said, "as well as items that are big around the holidays, namely batteries, phone cards and disposable cameras."The instant-win prizes are especially appropriate this time of year, according to Merz. "I think people are more aware of keeping in touch -- with loved ones and with what's going on in the world. Phone cards, wireless phones, portable televisions, even gas cards help people connect," he said.