12 Stores That Had the Best Free Samples
These stores made shopping more fun by giving out free samples.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Free samples used to be a big part of shopping. Some stores gave out snacks, while others let you test beauty products. This list looks back at 12 stores that were known for their great samples and made people happy.
1. Costco’s Unlimited Sample Stations
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Costco was renowned for its generous sample stations, offering everything from gourmet cheeses to frozen treats. Shoppers could enjoy unlimited tastings, making grocery runs feel like food festivals.
2. Sephora’s Beauty Bonanza
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Sephora elevated the sampling game by allowing customers to try a plethora of beauty products. From perfumes to foundations, the store encouraged hands-on experiences, ensuring shoppers found their perfect match.
3. Trader Joe’s Tasting Corners
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Trader Joe’s delighted customers with its sample stations, often featuring seasonal products. These tastings provided a sneak peek into new offerings, making shopping both fun and flavorful.
4. Whole Foods’ Personalized Samples
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Whole Foods took sampling to a personal level. Employees often opened products upon request, allowing customers to taste before purchasing, ensuring satisfaction with every buy.
5. Publix’s Southern Hospitality
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Publix charmed shoppers with its array of free samples, from freshly baked cookies to deli meats. This tradition added a touch of Southern hospitality to every shopping trip.
6. Sam’s Club’s Taste & Tips Program
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Sam’s Club’s “Taste & Tips” program offered members a chance to try new products weekly. These sampling events turned routine shopping into a culinary exploration.
7. Lush’s Handmade Trials
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Lush captivated customers with its handmade cosmetic samples. Shoppers could test products in-store, ensuring they found the perfect fit for their skincare needs.
8. Bath & Body Works’ Fragrance Trials
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Bath & Body Works invited customers to immerse themselves in a world of scents. With testers available for lotions and sprays, finding a signature fragrance was a delightful journey.
9. Aveda’s Botanical Experiences
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Aveda offered personalized consultations, allowing customers to sample hair and skincare products tailored to their needs. This approach ensured a holistic beauty experience.
10. Nordstrom’s Luxury Sampling
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Nordstrom’s beauty counters were a haven for sample seekers. With a range of high-end brands, customers could try products before investing, ensuring premium satisfaction.
11. Ulta’s Diverse Offerings
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Ulta bridged the gap between drugstore and luxury beauty, offering samples across a broad spectrum. This inclusivity allowed every shopper to find products suited to their preferences.
12. Brookstone’s Massage Chairs You Could Actually Try
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You could walk into Brookstone and sit right down in a massage chair without anyone stopping you. It felt more like a mini spa break than a shopping trip. Most people went in just for the free chair time and stayed longer than they planned.