Retailers Like Walmart Embrace Costco-Style Free Samples as Brands Seek Direct Consumer Engagement

October 17, 2023

Brands including Mondelez and startup Dude Wipes are ramping up sampling efforts to attract consumer attention and boost sales. Walmart is introducing free samples at 1,000 locations, while Wakefern is installing vending machines for samples at 95 stores. This trend reflects a shift in advertising strategies, with more brands opting to offer products directly to consumers as traditional paid ads become less effective.

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