Subway apologizes after a location advertised free medical masks for customers who bought 2 sandwiches

• Subway apologized after a store advertised it would give away free medical masks to customers who purchased two sandwiches.
• "FREE Medical Mask to protect you and your kids," stated a sign outside a Canadian Subway location in Calgary. "Buy any 2 Regular Sandwiches and Get 1 FREE Mask."
• The World Health Organization said the global shortage of personal protective gear such as masks "is one of the most urgent threats to our collective ability to save lives" amid the coronavirus pandemic.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Subway apologized after one of the chain's franchisees debuted a deal in which customers could get a free medical mask with the purchase of two sandwiches.

"FREE Medical Mask to protect you and your kids," read a large sign outside a Calgary Subway location. "Buy any 2 Regular Sandwiches and Get 1 FREE Mask."

The deal swiftly drew backlash and mockery online.

Subway apologized on Twitter in response to a tweet shaming the sandwich chain. A representative for the company did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for further comment.

"We are aware of this situation and have taken action to remove the sign from this location," Subway tweeted. "This does not reflect our core brand values & the great efforts of our network of local restaurant owners in this difficult time."

Calgary Herald reports that the sign has been taken down.

Last week, the World Health Organization said the global shortage of personal protective gear such as masks "is one of the most urgent threats to our collective ability to save lives" amid the coronavirus pandemic. State and local governments, hospitals, nonprofits, and individuals have launched campaigns for mask donations, attempting to get the protective gear to medical workers who need it the most.

If you're an employee or franchisee at a chain restaurant with a story to share, email retail@businessinsider.com.