
Tiny bites, big buys: the business of Costco's free samples
The article explains how Costco's in-store free samples, managed by Club Demonstration Services, function as a deliberate marketing tactic that primes taste memories, reduces purchase risk, and drives larger carts and membership loyalty. It highlights the financial logic—samples boost sales and justify annual dues—while also detailing the social dynamics, memes, and sometimes chaotic shopper behavior surrounding the stations.












