Sampling and product testing

Intensification of sales requires the implementation of activities tailored to the nature of the business, building effective communication with customers. Product sampling is a form of advertising, the main purpose of which is to expand the audience and stimulate the relationship between the producer/seller and the consumer.

What is sampling?

Effective sampling of goods includes a series of activities oriented toward optimizing sales. Accordingly, sampling in marketing means a set of activities through which a possible buyer can expand his knowledge of the promoted product before deciding to purchase it. The definition of sampling emphasizes the direct nature of the solutions implemented, which should be oriented to meet the needs of a specific group of customers. Sampling campaigns are gaining importance especially for companies operating in the FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) industry.

In practice, a sampling campaign primarily involves distributing free product samples to potential customers. Sampling a product can not only encourage recipients to buy a particular commodity, but is also a tool to positively create a brand image in the eyes of the target group. Free product sampling is particularly helpful for the introduction of new goods, as product testing allows to effectively increase customer awareness.

Sampling versus tasting - basic differences

Sampling is a broader concept than tasting. Sampling involves free product testing - a customer can receive free samples of a promoted cosmetic or food product, take a test drive in a car, etc. Tasting, on the other hand, is one of the sampling tools applicable to food items. It takes place in places where the product's target audience resides, or at points of sale.

Choosing a sales location for a sampling event allows customers to purchase the tested products immediately. Free products for testing are most often distributed by hostesses in the form of small portions of advertised food items. When organizing an action involving the tasting of product samples, it is worth paying attention to the choice of an appropriate date - it is best if the action is planned for a day when a particular point of sale is visited by a large group of customers and where the target group traffic is at the moment.

Effective product testing as a promotional tool: how to plan sampling activities?

Sampling and tastings require effective organization and planning of activities. The planned distribution of free samples of advertised goods should focus on determining the amount of product in a single sample and the method of distribution. In addition, the selection of experienced hostesses and brand ambassadors, as well as the correct definition of the group of recipients - the activities undertaken must meet the needs and expectations of potential consumers, have a very large impact on the effects of the sampling campaigns. It is also necessary to professionally develop an advertising strategy and specify the duration and location of the activities - the purpose of the organized action should be of fundamental importance for the prepared scheme of activities. At the same time, an important role is played by controlling the expenses incurred, especially in comparison with the effects achieved, which allows you to assess the profitability. Free -samples is a specific cost, and therefore, it is necessary to reasonably develop a budget for the campaign.

Professional sampling campaign: what activities can be implemented by OEX Cursor?

Sampling cooperation with OEX Cursor is a guarantee of support from experienced specialists. We offer comprehensive organization of sampling campaigns, tailored to the individual needs of our clients.

Activities that we can perform as part of our sampling services:

• tastings of product samples or dishes using the promoted product
• distribution of wholesome products
• Production of POS materials, gadgets, balloons, inflatables, promotional costumes, tasting stands
• organization of thematic workshops: cosmetic, creative, barista workshops

By carrying out sampling activities, we are able to guarantee our clients the services of professional consultants and ambassadors (physiotherapists, nurses, cooks, massage therapists, baristas, beauticians, etc.), specialized promoters and the opportunity for professionals to test products. In addition, we specialize in collecting feedback and recommendations and activation directly at clients' offices, organizing interesting events for your clients and employees.

Our specialists will plan, organize and carry out extensive sampling campaigns, providing full service of perfectly qualified personnel. The activities carried out are prepared in consultation with the client, so we also undertake the organization of non-standard campaigns.