WINN-DIXIE DELIVERY OFFERS FREE COOKIES

ROSEANNE HARPER

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Winn-Dixie Stores, based here, offered free family packs of cookies in its Atlanta division just before Christmas.

The cookie notice, dominating a quarter-page space in the division's ad circular, was part of a promotion for home delivery of groceries that featured a first-time delivery free.

That section of the ad page was headlined, "Free!" and showed a drawing of cookies on a plate.

Underneath, the ad stated, "Fresh-baked cookies when you use Winn-Dixie's Shoppers Express home delivery." In smaller type the ad continued, "All you have to do is use Winn-Dixie's Shoppers Express home delivery and ask for the free 34-count family pack of cookies."

Customers were given their choice of chocolate chip, sugar, oatmeal raisin or peanut butter.

The ad also indicated that the home-delivery order must total $25 or more to qualify for free cookies to go with it.

A star-shaped burst at the bottom of the ad contained this notice: "First-time delivery free. Subsequent deliveries only $9.95." An 800 number was supplied. Winn-Dixie could not be reached for comment on the ad.