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Free beer vending machine used in publicity campaign

May 28, 2014

Bend, Oregon-based 10 Barrel Brewing Co. has used a vending machine that dispensed free beer as a publicity stunt. During the weeklong campaign in early May, the vending machine was moved to random locations in Washington, Idaho and Oregon. Passersby could receive a bottle of Swill beer by inserting their ID to verify their age.

The stunt, named operation Swill, was accompanied by pictures and news posted on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The dialogue with social media followers kept interest alive during the marketing campaign.

Social media participants asked eagerly about the location of the vending machine’s next appearance and registered their appreciation. “Playing softball in Greenlake and a beer vending machine showed up! Thanks”, commented Ben on Twitter. “Not every day a beer vending machine shows up in front of your office. Thanks,” tweeted Dave.

Each kiosk was stocked with just 20 bottles of Swill beer, reported KTVZ.com.