On the first day of summer, Kroger delighted customers across multiple states with a generous offer: 45,000 pints of free Kroger Brand ice cream. However, shoppers in certain states, including Kentucky, were unable to participate in the celebration.
The promotion, which launched at 8 a.m. Eastern on Thursday via digital coupons at freekrogericecream.com, saw all 45,000 pints claimed within just two hours and fifteen minutes—a rate equivalent to 50 pints per minute of summer solstice sunlight.
The exclusion of Kentucky and other states from the giveaway was due to legal constraints. According to a Kroger spokeswoman, certain state laws, such as Kentucky Revised Statute 365.030, prohibit the sale of products below cost or the distribution of free goods to eliminate competition. This specific promotion could not be extended to stores in these regions.
While initial lists of excluded states varied, Kroger adjusted the promotion rollout, eventually including some states initially marked as ineligible. The company has yet to clarify the reasons for these adjustments.
Those fortunate enough to secure coupons have until July 3rd to redeem them, ensuring a sweet start to their summer festivities.
