It seems to be a growing problem, and frustrating for all brands big and small (and especially gutting for small ones who are counting every product and penny on their path to growth), so it’s encouraging to see the industry bible Diary Directory tackle the endemic issue of selling PR samples head on.
Using their site as a space to regularly offer advice to press and PR alike, they are currently giving suggestions on this particular code of conduct for both with input and advice from all sectors of the business.
Among their suggestions to journalists/influencers (apart from just not selling sample products via platforms like ebay and Depop in the first place) is to donate unwanted products instead to a local food bank or a charity having let the company or PR who have sent you that product know this is what you would like to do, so they’re in the picture too.
Beauty Banks is a suggested outlet here. Among their advice to PR’s is to be much more targeted with sample send outs and clear that they are not for resale.
We’ll post on why selling PR samples is so damaging to brands and our business – and how it affects everyone in it – soon, but in the meantime please read the full excellent post on diarydirectory.com
