#73 In-Store Demos 101: Building a Successful Demo Program (+ Funky Mello)

Let’s talk demos! In-store demonstrations are an important tool in a CPG company toolbox, so we brought our favorite team of demo experts to help us navigate this topic: Bridget Aragon & David Heiser - Co-founders of Grassroots Demos. Grassroots Demos help brands boost sales and reach more customers by sampling their items in-stores. Shoppers get to taste items in a safe environment and give feedback, and brands get super valuable insights and support sell-through. 

Listen in as David and Bridget share about:
- The critical components to a successful demo
- How to hire and train the right brand ambassadors
- Tips for navigating demo logistics like sample sourcing and supply chain
- What demo performance data to track
- The pros and cons of managing your own brand ambassador team versus using a vendor
- How to hire a demo company vendor
- Best practices for retailer communication about demos
- How to incentivize brand ambassador performance
- How merchandising fits into the picture
- And more!

And stay tuned at the end of the episode (56:12) for a mini interview with Delisa from Startup CPG Shelfie Award winner Funky Mello - my new favorite marshmallow creme with a wonderful story. 

Episode Links:

• Grassroots Demos website & IG @grassrootsdemos & LinkedIn
• Bridget’s LinkedIn
• David’s LinkedIn
• Co-Branded Demo Opportunity mentioned - information here & form here.
• Funky Mello Links: 
  • Funky Mello website & IG @funky_mello
  • Delisa’s LinkedIn

Show Links:

• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (9K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Jessi's Linkedin or website
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Jessi at [email protected]