3 Types of Product Sampling to Consider for 2025

If you want to get your brand into the hands of your ideal customers in 2025, product sampling should be high on your marketing agenda. Whether you're launching a new product, driving brand awareness, or encouraging trial to boost purchase intent, the right sampling strategy can help you cut through the noise and make a lasting impact.

At GottaBe! Marketing, we specialise in bringing brands to life through unforgettable brand experiences, and product sampling remains one of the most effective ways to engage consumers. Here are three types of product sampling to consider for 2025:

1. Sampling at Events & Pop-Ups

Event-based sampling is one of the best ways to get your product into the hands of engaged, high-intent consumers. Whether it's a music festival, a fitness expo, or a brand-hosted pop-up, event sampling allows for immersive brand interactions where consumers can experience your product in the right setting.

Why it works:

• Targeted audience – You can strategically choose events that attract your ideal customers, ensuring your product reaches the right people.
• Memorable experiences – Events create a sensory experience, making consumers more likely to remember and talk about your brand.
• Social amplification – Happy consumers love to share experiences on social media, increasing brand visibility beyond the event itself.

Top tip for events...

Make it interactive! Whether it’s a fun activation, a giveaway, or an experiential element, engaging consumers beyond just handing them a sample can boost retention and positive sentiment.

2. Office Sampling

With hybrid and in-office work making a strong comeback, office sampling is an underrated but highly effective way to get products in front of consumers in their daily environment. This works especially well for food, drink, and personal care brands, as employees are likely to try, discuss, and even share products with colleagues.

Why it works:

• High dwell time – Unlike fleeting encounters at events, office environments give consumers time to experience your product at their leisure.
• Word-of-mouth marketing – Office workers love to discuss and recommend new discoveries, leading to organic advocacy.
• Brand association – Sampling in office settings can position your brand as a trusted, high-quality choice for busy professionals.

Top tip for Office Sampling...

Partner with office managers or workplace wellness programs to integrate your sampling seamlessly and ensure maximum engagement.

3. In-Store Sampling

A classic for a reason, in-store sampling is still one of the best ways to influence purchase decisions in real-time. By allowing consumers to try before they buy, brands can significantly increase conversion rates and gain valuable customer feedback.

Why it works:

• Immediate purchase opportunity – Consumers can sample the product and buy it on the spot, removing barriers to purchase.
• Brand education – In-store sampling provides a chance to educate shoppers about your product’s benefits, unique selling points, and usage.
• Retailer relationships – Offering in-store sampling can help strengthen relationships with retailers, as it drives footfall and sales.

Top tip for promo staff...

Train your brand ambassadors to be knowledgeable and engaging. The right team can make all the difference in converting a curious consumer into a loyal customer.

Final Thoughts

No matter your industry, product sampling is a powerful way to introduce consumers to your brand in an authentic and engaging way. Whether through experiential events, office drop-offs, or in-store activations, the key is to choose the right method for your audience and objectives.

At GottaBe! Marketing, we’ve helped brands across FMCG, beauty, food & drink, and more execute winning sampling campaigns. If you’re ready to plan your 2025 strategy, get in touch with our team today!