Salsarita's Cannibalizes Other Brands' Coupons

Salsarita's Fresh Cantina, one of the nation's fastest growing, fast-casual Mexican restaurant chains, is celebrating December with a special "Spin the Wheel" promotion at the Ballantyne Quad location on 14021 Conlan Circle in Charlotte. Guests are encouraged to bring in any valid coupon and trade it in for a chance to spin the wheel to win a menu discount.

"During the holidays consumers are inundated with coupons they don't use or need. Salsarita's is offering our Ballantyne customers a chance to trade any coupon in at checkout for a chance to win a free menu item or discount," says Patricia Morris, brand manager, Salsarita's Fresh Cantina.

"You can bring in a coupon for an oil change, dry cleaning, or even another restaurant as long as it is valid."

The promotion is being tested at this single corporate location for the month of December and if successful, will be rolled out to franchisees nationwide in 2010. Prizes include various discounts off entree menu items, a complimentary meal, or a free cookie. Guests landing on the grand prize spot will be entered into a weekly drawing in which they'll have the chance to win a year's supply of free burritos. Typically, in-store promotions are piloted at selected corporate locations and then expanded systemwide based on the campaigns' effectiveness.

"Many chains discourage couponing, which we feel is counter intuitive for our fast casual offering since customers are seeking ways to save on restaurant meals now more than ever," says Paul Mangiamele, president and CEO, Salsarita's Fresh Cantina.

"Ultimately, we want our customers to become lifetime guests and this unique promotion is focused on delivering value, while exposing our guests to our legendary food and hospitality."