Try it, Test it, Write About it, Keep it

Years ago, at least 986 years to narrow it down, I worked part-time between university classes as a market researcher. I was one of those annoying people that came up to you in the mall asking if you would answer some questions about a particular product. If you met the specific criteria we were looking for, which differed depending on the product, you were invited back to the office for more market research. Depending on the product you would receive $1-$5.00 to apply deodorant to your arm, to try a new yogurt, or smell perfume samples. I loved this job because I received a bonus for everyone I was able to get into the office. I made good money.


Now there is a twist to this concept. I think I am going to love this. You are not going to shop until you drop, but you may have some fun that is really off the beaten track. There is a company that is promoting what they are calling tryvertising . Is it any wonder people have problems learning English when we bastardize it to create new ideas? Well tryvertising is different than what I did in college. A new store of the Sample Central franchise will open in Budapest in August. This is reportedly the first store in Europe, though this chain has been in South American since 2007. Here is how it will work.


You pay a registration fee of 1,490 Ft and an annual membership fee of 5,000 Ft. This gives you entry to the store, which looks similar to many stores, but with one significant difference. You will not have to pay for anything.  You will be allowed to choose 5 items from the store, take them home and keep them until they fall apart or you sell them on E-Bay. Now there is a catch, but it is rather a minor one. You are not allowed back into the store until you have filled out an online questionnaire about the product(s) you chose. No big whoop! That is my kind of deal. But, what the products are in reality will be the real test. After looking at the franchise website for the company, I am still guessing that you may choose 5 items each time you enter, if you were a compliant consumer who filled in their forms online. 


Companies involved are FMCG=Fast Moving Consumer Goods. These are consumable products such as toiletries, snack foods, beverages, soap, detergents, etc., that are produced in large quantities and distributed through retail stores. According to the website there are the FmCG in addition to electronics companies present, such as Procter & Gamble, Avon, Nestlé, Nivea, Sara Lee, Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, Kraft and Reckitt Benckiser. 


The store opens next month, so you will definitely be reading more about his in future blogs.

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