Charmin vs Cottonelle
Wal-Mart's having a big anniversary sale, and the front entrance had a giant tower of value packs of Charmin, for a good price. I've never used Charmin, long convinced that Cottonelle is the one true roll, but I figured I'd give it a try.
Now, I'm not really going to comment on the relative softness of these two products; but rather on the marketing that got me to try it.
It wasn't any sort of traditional advertising that convinced me to try a new product. It was the combination of convenience, and value. They priced it attractively, and they put it right where I would see it.
There are probably more people trying Charmin this week, thanks to this promotion, than at any time in the past. I'd love to see some statistics.
I believe that marketing dollars spent this way are better spent than dollars spent on TV, radio or print. Don't tell me how good your product is; arrange to get it into my hands so I can see for myself.
(Cottonelle is clearly better).