Walking into a store used to be an experience. Little extras made shopping fun. Even better was that most of those little things didn’t cost the store a dime. But over the years, the little perks have been stripped away. Some were casualties of leaner budgets, others fell victim to new routines and technology. Most customers didn’t notice at the time, but if you remember, you might miss them too. Here are 11 free items stores quietly stopped giving away.
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Free sewing kits with clothing purchases
Lots of clothing retailers used to slip a little sewing kit in bags as a nice little touch to fix a stray button or minor tear. Most kits had just a few needles, thread, and safety pins. They’re no longer around as many stores focus on fast fashion and expect people to throw things away and replace them rather than repair them.
Complimentary maps at bookstores and travel shops
Folded city maps were free with travel guidebooks in the bookstores with travel sections. It was a store’s way of getting travelers pumped for a trip, and encouraging them to pick up a guidebook. Stores quietly ditched them as smartphones replaced them. Now, you only get free maps from tourist information centers.
Free candy at bank-run stores
Some bank branches had a retail counter or desk that offered free lollipops to children. It was a kind gesture, not a money-making tactic. These small candies quietly faded away as bank lobbies were spruced up to look more serious and digital. Kids tagging along with their parents no longer get the same surprise.
Fabric swatches in department stores
Large department stores used to provide fabric swatches for people who were looking for furniture or curtains. People would take the small squares of cloth home to see how the color would look in their living rooms. This freebie was gradually eliminated, and now you’re expected to pay for samples or view them digitally.
Recipe cards at grocery stores
Grocery stores used to give out printed recipe cards near certain ingredients. They were usually simple, with quick dinners or seasonal recipes. This was a way to help inspire people while also driving sales of those items. Those stands are long gone, as companies have moved to digital recipes and apps.
Complimentary film canisters
Photo shops and large retailers used to give away little empty film canisters if you asked for them. People would use them as coin banks or to store screws or other small things. Since film itself has almost entirely disappeared from shelves, so too have those free canisters.
Free ice water cups at discount stores
Discount stores in warmer climates often kept a water cooler by the front door with small paper cups. Folks could grab a quick drink as they shopped around. But those coolers eventually faded away due to maintenance, and also fears of siphoning-without-shopping.
Complimentary shoe horns at shoe stores
Shoe stores once gave out little plastic shoe horns with purchases. It was not a fancy or elaborate promotional item, but it helped people slip into new shoes. Free shoe horns have all but vanished from shoe stores. Retailers now focus on selling branded accessories at an extra cost.
Free matchbooks at checkout counters
Matchbooks with the store’s logo were once free at the checkout counters of department stores, drugstores, even clothing shops. They were cheap advertising. Matchbooks also quietly faded away as people quit smoking, and fire safety rules grew more restrictive.
Keychains for car-related purchases
It was common for auto shops and tire centers to include a branded keychain for free when someone bought new tires or had their car serviced. It was a small, affordable item, but it was handy, and kept the company name in someone’s pocket every day. These freebies have mostly been eliminated, or you can only get them by signing up for their loyalty app or email reminders.
Free gift wrapping areas
Many stores used to have a little side counter during the holidays, where a clerk would wrap your purchase free of charge. Customers loved walking out with all their gifts ready to give. Stores have since trimmed the service to cut costs, or simply started charging for gift wrap and boxes. It’s become a seasonal splurge for customers.
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