In this episode of Local Marketing School, Emily Steele chats with Laurel Rundle, founder of AHA Marketing, all about effective sampling programs for brands, big and small. Since 2011, AHA Marketing has specialized in connecting brands with consumers through trusted professional channels. Laurel explains their unique approach of partnering with professionals like doctors, doulas, and gym owners to distribute product samples.  We chatted about sampling strategies, from custom programs to shared-cost opportunities for smaller brands, and also touched on key factors to consider when building out your own sampling program.  A great episode for established brands and emerging companies looking to implement effective sampling programs!

TUNE IN FOR TOPICS LIKE:

2:32 The journey of building AHA Marketing from the ground up

3:57 Core functions and value proposition of product sampling

7:51 Expert recommendations for brands new to product sampling

10:08 Evolution and transformation of the sampling industry over ten years

12:25 Industry-specific strategies: Sampling across retail, healthcare, and consumer sectors

16:57 Defining success with your sampling initiatives

19:28 Strategic brand partnerships: Creating successful partner programs

21:53 Building and leveraging networks of professional and everyday influencers

23:48 Essential guide for emerging brands entering the sampling space

28:01 What’s next for AHA Marketing

Listen to this week’s Local Marketing School conversation!

Other episodes you'll enjoy if you enjoyed Laurel's episode:

#15: Beyond the Fridge Bean Dip: Sustaining Viral Momentum in CPG Marketing | Jessyca Dewey, The Y Collective

#28: A Retail Roadmap for Emerging CPG Brands | Caroline Grace, Product & Prosper

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Find Laurel: LinkedIn

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