Tasting products in grocery stores, such as a new cereal or Quebec brand smoked salmon, is more popular than ever with consumers. Not only do you save money, but you can also change your consumption habits and encourage shopping locally.
“It depends on the product we present, but we evaluate it [qu’]one in three people […] buys the product after trying it,” says Sylvie Doré, president of Les Dégustations Sylvie Doré, one of the leading companies in this sector.
Tasting still has a significant influence on consumer decisions.
“When they see the price, even if they know the brand, they are not sure,” adds Ms. Doré. However, if they try it and like it, they often buy.”
According to the owner of the SME, which can hold up to 150 tastings per week, mostly of organic products, in all parts of Quebec, consumers are more informed than ever.
“My employees have to answer several questions about the product in front of them,” she adds. Customers want to know more about whether the product is gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian.”
However, tasting companies like Ms. Doré's or Banner are unable to quantify customer loyalty after a new purchase.
Sylvie Doré, owner of Dégustations Sylvie Doré, believes that customers have responded well to her tastings since March 2023. Photo provided by Sylvie Doré
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Tasting operations were on hold for three years due to the pandemic. They had to wait until last March to gain the right to return to grocery stores and specialty markets.
“We are back in full swing,” reveals Ms. Doré. People are excited to have human contact again and the sales are there.
“We sense that there has been greater openness from consumers since the pandemic.”
She estimates that her sales have increased an impressive 100% in the last year. Business is not only good in Quebec, but also in Ontario and British Columbia, where she owns other tasting companies.
The arrival of the machines
In recent months, IGA customers have noticed that machines are now offering samples, a pilot project by Uptaste, a company based in Saint-Hyacinthe.
These smart machines allow customers to taste solid or liquid products at the touch of a button. If customers like the product, they can buy the product by opening the top compartment.
“I was there with the tasters as a child,” explains Maxime Paulhus-Gosselin. My partner and I, Adekambi Laleye, were looking for a problem to solve.
“Our first machine was installed in an intermarché on Rue Mont-Royal in 2022.”
Uptaste machines have arrived in several supermarkets in the last two years. The Saint-Hyacinthe-based company has big goals for the future. Photo provided by Uptaste
Uptaste now has 10 machines in use for various banners. The Quebec SME just passed the milestone of 100,000 samples distributed to consumers from more than 150 companies that tried the experiment.
“We offer a [service] turnkey. The dealer and the company that does business with us do not have to touch our machines. The comments are positive and customers are demanding more.”
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