We have had many conversations over the past few years, months and weeks about the shift in sampling.
The importance of books
For quite some time now, people have asked whether there is still a place for fabric swatch books and wallpaper sample books; they are large, often cumbersome, take up space and cost money. The reduction in High Street stores has resulted in a reduction in the amount of books produced. One thing we have heard overwhelmingly, is that sample books are necessary, needed, valued and of huge importance in the wider picture of brand building and product sales.
We have seen evolving fabric and wallpaper sampling solutions come to market supplying different, new and innovative ways of displaying fabrics – shade cards, fan decks, ring sets and memo sets – little notebooks, colour decks and updateable, curatable books.
Elevating Sampling
But without doubt the most prevalent trend seen right now, is the elevation of sampling solutions. Brands – particularly furniture brands – are producing far more high quality sampling than we have previously seen.
Is this due to the restructure of SCS, or the change in product offering at M&S? Are we seeing a more focussed purchase channel for consumers, and therefore a need for furniture brands to stand out – to ensure their quality, heritage and sales message are being adequately portrayed by the silent sales people in store – the swatch books, samples and hanging lengths?
With the recent sad demise of a couple of our British furniture brands, is the battle of the furniture brand being won in the sampling? Eye catching, high quality, well produced and beautifully presented. Well produced books showcasing the livery of the brand, with skilfully presented fabric displayed within. Professionally produced swatches with:
- labels that don’t peel off the back
- evenly and uniformly cut
- fulfilled out to customers in well thought-out packaging
- arriving within a couple of days on their doorstep.
There is the famous tattoo meme of ‘there is always someone that will do it cheaper’. Is that how you want your brand reflected? Your sampling is your silent sales man. Invest in the best quality that you can and the rewards will come.
To find out more about the many sampling possibilities on offer at Sampling International, and to experience the exceptional quality and service we are renowned for, contact us today.