With the advent of the internet, brands and retailers can now reach new audiences on a targeted, and at times, on a global scale. There are a number of channels that traditional product sampling cannot offer in the digital space, but how do you get your product or brand noticed in the digital jungle? One way is through digital product sampling, and this particular marketing mechanic continues to make a breakthrough in the product sampling world. Could digital sampling methods be the future of FMCG marketing? 

What is digital sampling?

Similar to traditional sampling, digital sampling can provide consumers with a free product in order to generate interest and awareness as sampling would normally do. However, digital sampling involves the use of online platforms to take consumers through the purchase funnel, rather than in-person or indirect sampling techniques where consumers are simply given a free product.

It can be an extremely effective marketing tool, as it allows brands to reach a large number of potential customers in a relatively short amount of time, with a straightforward and hassle-free set up. 

How does digital sampling work?

As an omni-channel avenue, brands are able to target their consumers through a number of online digital platforms – one of the most effective being social media applications. This requires a variety of tools to identify and reach out to potential customers and then provide them with relevant samples of products based on their preferences and interests, ultimately serving hyper targeted capabilities. Additionally, these can be customised further to target specific age and gender demographics, as well as behaviours and locations. 

Another great way to reach your audience is through digital ads and email marketing methods which involves sending out emails to an existing CRM list where consumers can claim a free sample, or a discount/money-off coupon exclusive to the consumer. This is an extremely effective way of reaching out to potential customers, as it allows you to target those with the correct interests but have not yet made the steps to purchase. Rather, it gives prospective consumers a gentle ‘push’ to take action. 

Why is digital sampling effective?

By providing samples, brands can create a relationship with consumers that goes beyond simply selling a product. It is an effective way for brands to connect with consumers on a digital level as well as personal, by leading consumers directly to the sample itself as well as providing an incentive for purchase – for example when using digital coupons to claim in store. 

Data capture is at the heart of digital sampling. It allows the tracking of 1st party data which can track and measure essential information such as consumer behaviour, preferences, sample feedback/reviews and audience figures. As with most marketing campaigns, data capture is necessary to make the most out of your marketing efforts and will provide you with beneficial consumer insight to act upon. 

As digital sampling delivers a hyper targeted approach, you will find there is less audience wastage overall due to targeting those who have similar existing interests. The relevant consumer responds to the triggers and makes the choice to claim the sample. Digital sampling is able to filter out those who are less likely to take those additional steps. 

Should you use digital sampling as a promotion strategy?

This modern approach to sampling is an excellent way for brands to reach their target audience and generate direct sales. It allows brands to connect with potential customers on a large digital scale through a variety of channels and provides a solution to a number of business objectives. 

As the virtual space is becoming more accessible, digital sampling is definitely a powerful channel to add into the marketing mix if you are looking for a highly targeted medium to reach your audience, or whether you are keen in capturing essential data. 

At Flavor, we offer digital sampling across our services. Reach out to us if you would like to learn more about how we can help you maximise your brand through digital sampling. 

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Flavor. Sampling is an Integrated Sampling Agency. We curate the perfect mix of sampling techniques to deliver optimal results for every campaign. Integrating all elements under one house to drive efficiencies in Targeting, Relevance, Measurement and ROI

We plan, execute & measure sampling campaigns built from a blend of tools, methods and techniques – including the ones mentioned in this blog:)

To find out more about Integrated Sampling or to find out more about this blog, give us a call or drop us an email at the below…

Email: info@flavorsampling.com

Tel: 07977 148 784