Ulta Beauty is embracing innovation with the introduction of smart vending technology from SOS. This move not only enhances their in-store sampling program but also opens doors to in-store advertising capabilities as part of their retail media offerings.
A Smart Vending Experience
Ulta Beauty plans to pilot SOS smart vending machines in select locations across 10 cities, spanning New York, Massachusetts, Florida, California, and Texas. Current Ultamate Rewards members will enjoy the perk of claiming one free sample every week from a diverse selection of travel-sized cosmetics, skincare, and haircare products.
To access their free sample, visitors can simply enter their phone number or email on the interactive screens, connecting to their Ultamate Rewards account. New customers can also sign up directly on the screen to start receiving their complimentary trial products.
Furthermore, Ulta’s partnership with SOS extends beyond beauty products, as the vending machines will also offer complimentary Rael period care products to all Ulta Beauty guests.
Elevating Advertising Capabilities
These smart vending machines are not just about sampling; they double as dynamic and interactive advertising platforms. Ulta can utilize them to create awareness for sampling opportunities, launch new products, and convey brand messages. This addition enhances Ulta’s retail media network, providing more avenues to engage with customers.
Transforming the Beauty Shopping Experience
Maria Salcedo, SVP of Merchandising at Ulta Beauty, stated, “At Ulta Beauty, we are committed to delivering new, engaging ways for guests to experience, try, and fall in love with new products.” The collaboration with SOS represents a guest-centric approach to beauty retail. It offers Ulta the opportunity to explore how customers interact with vending machines and digital brand touchpoints in-store, ultimately pushing the boundaries of innovation in the beauty shopping experience.
TL;DR:
- Ulta Beauty is piloting SOS smart vending machines in select locations.
- Ultamate Rewards members can claim one free sample per week.
- The machines also offer complimentary Rael period care products.
- Smart vending machines serve as interactive advertising platforms.
- Ulta aims to enhance the beauty shopping experience and push the boundaries of innovation.
Stay tuned for an enhanced beauty shopping experience at Ulta Beauty stores!
Hi, I’m Oren, founder at BIGINTRO, a content strategy agency that helps B2B companies drive growth. We develop search, social, PR, and content marketing strategies tailored to business goals. I also have a dog named Milo.