Fact Check: Are DQ Blizzards 85 cents?

Are DQ Blizzards 85 Cents?

The claim that Dairy Queen (DQ) is offering Blizzards for 85 cents has circulated widely, particularly in the context of a promotional deal. This promotion is set to occur between September 11 and September 24, 2023, and is available exclusively through the DQ app at participating locations. However, the specifics of this deal and its implications merit a closer examination.

What We Know

Promotion Details: According to multiple sources, Dairy Queen will sell Small Blizzard Treats for 85 cents during the specified promotional period. The deal is contingent upon customers using the DQ app to place their orders 1 2 5 6.
Limitations: The promotion is limited to one Small Blizzard per order at the promotional price, and any modifications or extras that alter the base price of the Blizzard will not qualify for the 85-cent deal 3 5.
Context of the Promotion: This pricing is part of a broader marketing strategy that coincides with the launch of fall-flavored Blizzard treats, which Dairy Queen often uses to attract customers during seasonal transitions 2 4 6.
Historical Significance: The 85-cent price point is notable as it aligns with Dairy Queen's 85th anniversary, adding a celebratory context to the promotion 6 10.

Analysis

Source Reliability

Credible News Outlets: Sources like USA Today 1, TODAY 2, and People 5 are generally considered reliable, as they are established media organizations with editorial standards. They provide clear details about the promotion and its limitations.
Official DQ Communications: The Dairy Queen website 3 8 offers direct information about the promotion, which is crucial for verifying the details. However, corporate communications can sometimes be biased towards promoting the brand, so it is essential to cross-reference with independent sources.
Potential Bias: While most sources report the same promotional details, some, like Parade 4 and Delish 10, may have a more promotional tone, which could influence the presentation of the information. Their articles are often designed to attract readers to the brand rather than provide purely objective reporting.

Methodology and Evidence

The claims about the 85-cent Blizzard deal are supported by multiple sources, all of which cite the same promotional period and conditions. However, the reliance on app-based ordering could limit access for some customers, raising questions about the inclusivity of the promotion.
The lack of independent verification from consumer advocacy groups or market analysts about the promotion's impact on sales or customer satisfaction suggests that while the promotional claim is widely reported, the broader implications remain unexamined.

Additional Information Needed

To further assess the validity and impact of this claim, additional information would be beneficial, such as:

Customer feedback during past promotions to gauge satisfaction and accessibility.
Data on the promotion's effectiveness in driving sales compared to previous promotional events.
Insights from Dairy Queen regarding the expected outcomes of this marketing strategy.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that Dairy Queen is offering Small Blizzards for 85 cents during a promotional period from September 11 to September 24, 2023, is substantiated by multiple credible sources, including official communications from Dairy Queen and established news outlets. The promotion is specifically tied to the company's 85th anniversary and is designed to attract customers with seasonal flavors.

However, it is important to note that this promotion has limitations, including the requirement to order through the DQ app and restrictions on modifications to the Blizzard. While the evidence supports the claim, the promotion's accessibility may vary for different customers, and the overall impact on sales or customer satisfaction remains unexamined.

Readers should remain aware of these nuances and critically evaluate promotional claims, as marketing strategies can often be designed to create excitement while potentially excluding certain customer segments.