EXPERTS IN PRODUCT SAMPLING
CoOptions’ Sampling Store™ offers a broad portfolio of product sampling options, from turnkey themed co-ops with major retail partners to custom targeted campaigns at #1 lifestyle touchpoints. We also offer end-to-end services including sample overwrapping and tip-on, fulfillment, and depth consumer/shopper research (including longitudinal conversion studies).
Our leadership team is comprised of former CPG marketers from Kraft, P&G, Nestle, and major agencies, so we approach brand trial strategically and with the combined experience of those who have been in the sampling trenches on both brand and agency sides. The Sampling Store was founded in Stamford, CT, its headquarters moving to Cary, NC in 2004.
Over the past three decades, we’ve delivered on trial and conversion objectives for hundreds of CPG companies, including Kraft, Mondelez, P&G, Pepsico, Nestlé, Unilever, Clorox, and Campbell’s; and many major retailers including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Publix, and Kroger.
MANAGING PARTNERS
BRIAN SCOTT SOCKIN
MANAGING PARTNER
Brian brings more than 35 years of marketing and new product experience to the business from both client and agency sides. Prior to founding CoOptions and Sampling Store in 1994, Brian was a brand manager at Kraft Foods and co-founder / CEO of Colangelo Synergy, now an Omnicom agency.
Brian has his BA in Psychology (Binghamton University) and his MBA (Wharton). He is also an author of 11 published books, including The Pocket Marketer (Warner Books). His passions include skiing, tennis, hiking, writing, and travel. Brian is also a Fellow of the international Explorers Club.
DARLENE GENANDER
MANAGING PARTNER
Prior to joining us, Darlene held positions at Kraft Foods in Marketing and New Product Development, and Sales at Procter & Gamble. Darlene brings special expertise to the firm in health and wellness marketing and promotions, managing our Yoga Studio Network™ and other health and wellness sampling channels.
Darlene is a Certified Yoga Instructor and highly engaged in local and national yoga communities. Darlene’s other passions include hiking, yoga, SUP yoga, paddleboarding, nature photography and gardening.