Facial on a Budget

Biore ULTRA Pore Strips; $7.99

Rekindling a product adored in your past is always a pleasant surprise.  An example?  My re-introduction to the ever-nostalgic, Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips.  During a routine trip to the drugstore last night, I felt compelled to purchase a box of Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips and I'm so glad I did!

My first experience using the Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips was back in my pubescent days of high school.  I remember a period of time where I was just dying to purchase the pore strips and used them regularly for a few years.  In the early 2000s the Biore Deep Cleansing Strips were ever-so-popular as a result of extensive advertising. 

Anyway, I bought the product and used it a couple nights ago and I am head over heals in love with it; just as I was 10 years prior! 

I would recommend upgrading to the Ultra edition of the Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips.  Instead of containing 8 strips you only get 6 strips but its worth the slight upgrade.  The pore strips do what they are supposed to do . . . clean your pores!  And needless to say, I was long overdue as in my strip looked like a porcupine’s back after removal.  It was disgustingly-cool. The strip also peeled off a layer of dead skin and actually conditioned the skin, making the skin on my nose feel softer than usual.  After using the product, I could still make out the pore indentations on my nose but  the pores remained free of dirt, bacteria and the process appeared to visibly reduce the appearance of white/blackheads.

Talk about a mini-facial for less than $10?  Super-fab!

Have you been re-introduced to a beauty product from your past that you have had a positive experience with?

Brandwashing

  

A fascinating article in Fast Company was released earlier this month examines the length some well-known companies go to "prime" their patrons for purchase. 

The article specifically highlights Whole Foods' promotional strategy.  What may seem like originally crafted chalk boards next to produce section are actually mass-produced and designed by their corporate office, located in Texas.  How about the watermelons that haven't been unpacked from original boxes they arrived in?  Well, they could have easily directed an employee to unpack the fruit, but what's the point?  They're trying to create perception that the customer is getting their produce "straight from the farm" fresh; adding value to their purchase.  

Perception is an elementary and fundamental marketing concept that many successful companies are emphasizing in their marketing efforts.  The primary goal?  To create a unique experience for the customer and set themselves apart from the competition.

Whole Foods is definitely not the first company to adopt the concept of perception vs. reality --but they are a great example of a company with vision and excellent brand strategy.  They give customers what they want (or think they want): an unforgettable and rewarding shopping experience.

Interested in this marketing concept? Read.

Brandwashed by Martin Lindstrom (2009)