It’s scary season, and some QSRs are embracing Halloween-themed LTOs for October. Seasonal promotions allow restaurants to provide a fun new experience for guests, stand out from the competition with unique offerings, get guests excited to try something novel, and an opportunity for brand expansion through social media.
As many fall menus were introduced late in the summer, some chains are switching it up with Halloween-themed menus for the month:
Wendy’s has announced the return of Boo! Books. Sold every fall for $1, these coupon books include five free Jr. Frosty treat coupons, and this year’s edition features a bonus coupon for a $1.99 Wendy’s Kids’ Meal with any purchase. These books help support the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption® in its mission to find loving, permanent homes for children in foster care. Frosty Frights kids’ meal toys are also available, featuring a choice of 4-piece chicken nuggets, a hamburger or cheeseburger, plus Jr. Hot and Crispy Fries or Apple Bites, a kids’ drink, and a toy character.
Rather than a themed menu, Tim Hortons has released new Halloween merch for the season, including a Black Cat ceramic mug that changes when hot liquid is added, a Black Cat plastic tumbler, and this year’s Black Cat-themed Halloween Timbits Bucket, which can be purchased on its own or filled with 31 Timbits.
Burger King has launched a new Monster Mash menu, available now in U.S. locations. The menu includes the Jack-O-Lantern Whopper, Vampire Nuggets, Mummy Mozzarella Fries, and Franken-Candy Sundae. In addition, Monster Menu-inspired Halloween Buckets will be available starting October 13 at participating locations, while supplies last.
Krispy Kreme has released its Halloween-themed box, along with four new festive donuts. The Halloween collection features the following new donut flavours: Candy Bag, Cookies and Skreme House, Jack-o-Lantern, and Spooky Sprinkle. These are available individually, in a dozen, and at select retailers until October 31.
Chipotle recently announced that it will be offering “Chip-or-Treat” deals weekly until October 30. For the month, loyalty members who purchase an entrée through the app or in person will receive an email providing a treat (tailored to their preferences) that will be valid for five days, along with unlocking other extra perks.
Getting into the holiday spirit with Halloween-themed LTOs allows restaurants to celebrate with their guests, offer increased value and unique menu items, and drive traffic through the season.
Image courtesy of Tim Hortons’ website.
