23. How to Run Demos That Actually Drive Sales With Andrew Therrien, Sampler

23. If your in-store demos are flat, poorly trained, or unsupported, you're wasting money—and hurting your brand. A bad demo is worse than no demo at all. In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Therrien from Sampler to break down what separates high-performing retail demos from expensive "educational" failures. We unpack how demos fuel base sales, why co-demos expand basket size, how to align demos with your promotional calendar, and why reporting and accountability are non-negotiable. You'll learn how to vet demo agencies, ensure proper training, protect your brand story, and leverage demo data to improve products, overcome objections, and strengthen retailer relationships. We also discuss the hidden risks—like poor logistics, missing product, weak ambassadors, and lack of insurance—that can damage your reputation. Done right, demos create new trial, drive incremental sales, and position you as a committed retail partner. Get instant access on the show webpage: RetailSolved.com/session23