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The StartSampling Advantage

Why use e-sampling? Brands take advantage of online sample request programs in many ways:

  • Quick Sales Lift: Fast-turn launch and in-home requested trial leads to quick results at retail
  • New Product Launch: The intense time spent engaged with the brand and the in-home trial is perfect for new product launches that gain from more exposure
  • Engage Lapsed /Current Users: e-sampling is used quite often to create more loyalty from existing users and get these users to “trade-up” to new formulas and flavors. It is also used to engage users who may have lapsed or switched out of the brand (e.g. to store brand).
  • Educate Consumers: e-sampling engages the consumers typically for over 3 minutes and at multiple touch points. This is the perfect opportunity to educate and explain a product and its benefits (e.g. through a video or other visuals and insert materials).
  • Connect with OFFLINE Advertising: It is very common for brands to team e-sampling (online) with OFFLINE advertising and drive consumers online to “try-it”. This not only combines advertising mediums, but also combines the awareness campaign with a promotional tactic (sampling). It is common to tag commercials and print advertising asking consumers to “go online to try a sample.”
  • Build a CRM database: e-sampling allows brands to build a CRM database and continue to send communications to consumers long after the event. Typically, 20%-50% of consumers will agree to be contacted by a brand.
  • Target Specific Households: e-sampling can target down to the psychographic level (ie: competitive users, consumers who like scented lotion, working moms, etc.) and limit samples only to these households. This can be more effective than demographic targeting because only those consumers specifically in your prime target group are eligible, and they must WANT to try your product.
  • Support an Existing Marketing Platform: e-sampling can extend to a multi-product event or support a broader marketing platform that may span several brands (e.g. sponsorship of non-profits, in-store events, etc.)

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