Krispy Kreme Offers 'SOS' Deal Amidst Cellular Outage

There is currently a massive cell phone outage across the U.S., and with conspiracy theories spreading rapidly, one brand is stepping up to try to restore calm. We love shouting out a good marketing stunt when we see one, and today, Krispy Kreme has impressed us with its rapid response to the outages (even if AT&T hasn't). The chain announced via Instagram that anyone who needs a pick-me-up can head to their nearest Krispy Kreme shop from 5-7 p.m. today for a free Original Glazed Doughnut.

"SOS?!" Krispy Kreme wrote in the Instagram caption. "While your service is down, we're serving up!" One hour after it went live, the post has received more than 5,200 likes and dozens of responses. In the fast food world, where promotions often take weeks to formulate and roll out nationwide, it's notable to see a brand respond to current events in real time, rather than, say, introducing a "Girl Dinner" menu well after the TikTok trend has died down.

"The devil works hard but the Krispy Kreme social media specialist and marketing team works harder," wrote one Instagram user.

"You are for the people," wrote another, coupled with a saluting emoji.

Some Instagram users asked if they need to present any kind of proof that they were affected by the outage to receive their free doughnut. Krispy Kreme has responded saying that no proof is necessary and that a free doughnut will be given to anyone who shows up within the 5-7 p.m. window.

This is Krispy Kreme's go-to promotion, and it's beautiful in its simplicity. Whereas so many fast food chains make you download an app and join a rewards program to redeem any freebies, Krispy Kreme's old-school approach is rather analog by comparison: show up, receive doughnut, no purchase necessary. The chain offers this same deal on National Donut Day, Election Day, the Fourth of July—basically, this company loves giving you a free Original Glazed. After a day of perplexing technological failures, why not make something good happen?