I recently received this question from a member:
"Last summer I was part of a test group for a new (hair product). The product was amazing! I have been disappointed that I haven't been able to buy it at the store and am anxiously waiting for it to be released to the public. When will it be available?"
It's a good question, but I don't have precise answer because our clients - the companies that provide the products that you test - don't share that information with us. Although product testing is usually one of the last steps before a product is released for sale, the feedback that product testers provide may result in the client abandoning the idea or reworking it considerably. Therefore, it is very difficult to predict when (or if) the product will appear on store shelves.
My best advice is to keep looking as this panelist did:
"What a delightful treat to find a product on the store shelf that I helped test market! Just this week Pantene Silver Expressions graced the shelf at our local drug store. I was so pleased with the results during the testing period, that I continued to use every drop of both the shampoo and conditioner! What fun to find this great product sitting on the shelf for everyone to enjoy now! It truly shows that what we as consumers think, actually is listened to."
I admit though, even this advice may sometimes be difficult to follow because some product tests are "blind"- meaning the test products have no identifying label that would help you later recognize it on store shelves. Despite my inability to provide a precise answer about when products you experience will be available, we appreciate your participation in surveys and product tests. Your opinions help manufacturers craft products that meet consumer needs.
Also, one quick reminder about concept and product tests. Just as we always keep your personal information and survey responses confidential - we appreciate your keeping the new products you see when you take surveys and test samples confidential too!
