Back in January I had an idea for a new type of vending machine to distribute samples … “tryvertising” as it’s called. And I even came up with a way to access the machine AND capture a user’s details — get them to send an SMS to the machine, which sends back an “unlock” code … the advertiser gets the mobile number and controls who gets the samples, and the consumer gets a free sample.

Not that I ever wanted to create the machine … I just thought it’d be a good idea. Put it in public places like shopping malls, libraries, bus and train stations, hotel lobbies etc … like other vending machines, but with free samples inside.

And then today … whammo, it has been spotted this week in Belgium! It’s the Boobox vending machine. It even operates via SMS!

I’m glad someone is doing it … I think it’s a useful concept. Just like consumer “tryvertising” promotions such as loaning a new video or camera at a destination such as a zoo, to try out the product with a hands-on demo, or going to a place like the Sample Lab in Tokyo to test and try new products.

How do you get samples and “tryvertising” into the hands of your clients?

• I’m listening to the most beautiful sound … rain, rain, rain … on ya Huey! #
• @robertplank great move! You won’t regret it! I still remember the day I did that back in October 1998 … #

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