Is 80Eighty a legitimate dream car giveaway or just a clever marketing scheme? This article delves into the truth behind 80Eighty’s promotions, revealing how to enter without spending a fortune.
80Eighty, a Utah-based company founded by Danny Schmucker, Justin Wallace, and Nick Mofford, has gained significant traction with its Dream Car Giveaways. Their model seems straightforward: spend $5 on their merchandise, get one entry. This message is heavily promoted across their YouTube channels, Facebook, and Instagram. But is this the whole story?
The Hidden Truth: No Purchase Necessary
While 80Eighty emphasizes purchasing merchandise for entries, U.S. law mandates a “no purchase necessary” option for sweepstakes. Buried in the fine print of their website footer lies the secret: you can enter without spending any money.
The disclaimer states: “NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.” This crucial information is obscured by small font and a color that blends with the background. Clicking the inconspicuous “80eighty.com” link in the disclaimer leads to the official rules, revealing the alternative entry method.
Decoding the Official Rules: Postcard Power
The official rules PDF reiterates: “NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING.” It outlines two entry methods: purchasing merchandise online at $5 per entry, or mailing a postcard.
The postcard method, while less publicized, offers a significant advantage: each postcard earns five entries. By sending postcards, participants gain a substantial number of entries without any financial investment. For example, 100 postcards equate to 500 entries, the same as spending $2,500 on 80Eighty’s merchandise.
80Eighty’s Marketing Tactics: Misleading or Just Business?
While 80Eighty technically adheres to legal requirements by offering a free entry method, their marketing heavily emphasizes purchasing merchandise. This raises questions about their transparency and prioritization of profit over fair play.
Even purchase confirmation emails reinforce the idea of increasing odds by buying more, directly contradicting the official rules. Sharing the postcard entry method on 80Eighty’s social media platforms often leads to censorship.
Conclusion: Enter Smart, Not Broke
80Eighty’s Dream Car Giveaways are real, but their marketing tactics can be misleading. Understanding the rules empowers participants to enter strategically without unnecessary expenditure. Utilizing the postcard method levels the playing field, allowing anyone to pursue their dream car without breaking the bank. Remember to always research and understand the rules of any sweepstakes before participating.
