For almost three decades, SONIC® Drive-Ins across the U.S. have competed in the DR PEPPER® SONIC® GAMES for the chance to be crowned the best of the best. A team’s efficiency, service and even friendliness are put to the test during the length of the competition.
For almost three decades, SONIC® drive-ins across the U.S. have competed in the DR PEPPER® SONIC® GAMES for the chance to be crowned the best of the best. A team’s efficiency, service and even friendliness are put to the test during the length of the competition.
What are the DR PEPPER® SONIC® GAMES?
The DR PEPPER® SONIC® GAMES challenge SONIC team members to give the best customer service and serve up quality every time. It is a chance to train and test the skills and knowledge these team members have, ultimately offering a chance to take home first place at the end of the games.
How does it work?
PRELIMINARY | TOP 1,000 | TOP 500 | TOP 50 | FINAL 12 | CHAMPIONS
Over several months, thousands of SONIC® drive-ins participate in training and service exercises until only 12 teams remain.
PRELIMINARY January–May
Each month participating drive-ins complete modules and training exercises to sharpen their skills on all menu items and are scored on mystery shopper experiences.
TOP 1,000 June
1,000 teams advance to this round. If you see your local SONIC wearing semifinalist hats or displaying signage about their success, be sure to say “Way to go!”
TOP 500 late June
You guessed it — the Top 500 drive-ins continue on to this round. These teams will each receive an award for making it so far in the competition.
TOP 50 July
The games are heating up! These 50 drive-ins will compete in a Knowledge Bowl alongside other activities to determine which will continue on to the finals.
FINAL 12 July
The best of the best! These teams will compete in the finals in San Diego. If you spot a National Finalist banner at your drive-in, be sure to congratulate the team members on this achievement!
CHAMPIONS September
A medal ceremony is held to announce the gold, silver and bronze medalists for team and position-specific categories as the champions are crowned.
TEAM PLAYERS
“There is no better feeling than just knowing all that you accomplished and how hard that you worked. It is truly rewarding.”
“It feels nice, like all the hard work we do pays off. It feels like they’re celebrating us for working hard.”
“[The Games] makes me feel very special and included because it’s such a big deal across the country.”
“Being a part of the Games just makes you want to work harder and go for the gold.”
“I love it so much. This is such a great experience. It changed my life and made me a better person.”
“The atmosphere during the Games is energetic for sure. You can feel everybody’s energy. Everyone is super excited and happy.”
“Being a part of the Dr Pepper SONIC Games is special. It’s like being a celebrity for a week. ”
A look inside the games
See what you have accomplished during the DR PEPPER® SONIC® GAMES.
