How to make the most of your online sampling campaigns

At Sampl, we know product sampling can power brand growth—if done right. But while sampling is effective, it’s only as impactful as the strategy behind it.

We put together our best learnings from running hundreds of campaigns. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and maximise your campaign’s impact;

1. Create exclusivity for higher value

Widely promoting your sampling campaign may seem smart, but it dilutes control. Instead, limit access to make your sample more valuable and ensure it reaches high-potential customers. Avoiding mass promotion keeps engagement meaningful and boosts ROI.

2. Watch out for freebie hunters

Freebie hunters often collect samples with no intent to purchase. These consumers strain your resources and reduce your campaign’s effectiveness. SamplMatch technology filters out these users, allowing you to reach genuine potential customers who engage authentically with your product.

3. Target narrow audiences for quality leads

Precise targeting may increase initial cost, but the payoff is higher-quality leads and stronger engagement. Avoid casting a wide net; focus on those who align with your ideal customer profile to increase conversion rates and campaign results.

4. Time your campaign wisely

Timing matters. Launch early for seasonal campaigns to align with customer buying cycles. Missed timing can mean missed sales. For example, if you’re planning a Christmas campaign, start early in autumn to reach decision-makers during their shopping period. We have a handy timing guide that you can use for this.

5. Use data to refine future campaigns

Sampling generates valuable data on customer preferences and engagement. Use these insights to sharpen targeting, messaging, and distribution for future campaigns. At Sampl, we recommend tracking ROI and engagement to continually improve.

6. Follow up with people to turn samples into sales

Samples are a first step. Only by following up can you turn them into sales. After sending samples, engage customers with emails, feedback requests, or targeted ads to nurture interest and drive them to retailers. We have some awesome NearStore technology to help with that (and measure it).