Asda has introduced a range of innovative methods for customers to access free samples and promotional offers, focusing on in-store digital vending machines, app-based rewards systems, and cashback opportunities. The supermarket’s recent trial of an automated free sample vending machine at its Pilsworth store in Bury represents a significant development in its approach to product sampling. This initiative, described as a “first to market innovation” designed to “revolutionise in-store sampling,” allows shoppers to obtain free samples of newly launched products from branded partners by scanning their Asda Rewards ID through the supermarket’s mobile application. Müller’s Frijj product was identified as the first offering available through this new system.
The vending machine concept is supported by Asda’s retail media division, LS Eleven Media Services, which assists brands in engaging customers with dynamic content and product trials. This strategy mirrors approaches already established in US supermarkets, where similar automated sampling machines have demonstrated a 50% increase in sales post-campaign. The trial comes as Asda seeks to address a decline in sales, with figures showing a 5.2% drop over the 12 weeks leading up to 26 January 2025. The return of the Rollback campaign, under the direction of chair Allan Leighton, forms part of broader efforts to revitalise the supermarket’s performance.
In addition to the physical vending trial, Asda provides various digital and receipt-based opportunities for customers to obtain free products and savings. These include cashback offers that can result in free items when uploading a picture of a receipt, as well as promotional vouchers for money off future shopping. Specific offers noted include the chance to obtain a free plant-based product via cashback, free Felix Doubly Delicious dry cat food (750g) through cashback, and free Pedigree items via the same method. A free Plenish Shot drink can also be obtained via cashback from participating stores.
Other promotional activities identified include a free £55 discount voucher applicable to a customer's first four online grocery orders. Furthermore, Asda has run a free entry Cadbury Secret Santa competition offering the chance to win 400 Cadbury Dairy Milk products. For customers looking to maximise savings, the supermarket frequently updates its promotional products and offers free money-off vouchers for shopping trips. There is also a mention of a soup, roll, and unlimited tea/coffee offer for £1 available for individuals over the age of 60, although specific eligibility details for this offer were not provided in the source material.
How the Automated Sampling Vending Machine Works
Asda’s trial of the automated vending machine at the Pilsworth store in Bury operates through integration with the Asda Rewards app. Shoppers are required to scan their Asda Rewards ID at the machine to dispense a free sample. The first product offered through this system was Frijj, provided by Müller. This digital sampling machine is designed to facilitate the trial of newly launched products from the supermarket's branded partners.
The technology behind the machine is provided by LS Eleven Media Services, Asda’s retail media arm. This service helps brands engage with customers through dynamic content and facilitates product trials. The concept is based on similar machines used in the United States, which have reportedly resulted in a 50% increase in sales for brands following their campaigns. The primary goal of the trial is to boost sales and customer engagement with new products.
App-Based Rewards and Cashback Freebies
Beyond the physical vending machine, Asda offers several digital pathways to free products and savings, primarily centred around the Asda Rewards app and receipt scanning cashback services.
- Plant-Based Products: Customers can obtain free plant-based products by utilising cashback services after purchasing the item and uploading a picture of the receipt.
- Pet Food: Free Felix Doubly Delicious dry cat food (750g) is available via cashback. Additionally, all Pedigree items listed on certain offer pages can be obtained for free via cashback when purchased at Asda.
- Health and Beverage: Free Plenish Shot drinks can be claimed via cashback from any of the stores listed in the promotion.
- New Account Offers: By creating a new Cheddar account using the code "FREEBIE," customers can access a free offer, though the specific product or value was not detailed in the source material.
Online Grocery Savings and Competitions
Asda provides significant incentives for new online grocery customers and runs periodic competitions.
- First Order Discount: A free £55 discount is available to be used against a customer's first four orders placed through Asda’s online grocery platform.
- Competitions: Asda has previously run a free entry Cadbury Secret Santa competition, offering participants the chance to win one of 400 Cadbury Dairy Milk products.
General Promotional Offers
The supermarket frequently updates its promotional offerings, which include free money-off vouchers for use during shopping trips. These promotions are designed to help customers save on their regular shops and often feature specific promotional products added regularly. For older customers, there is a mention of a meal deal consisting of soup, a roll, and unlimited tea or coffee for £1, although the specific terms and conditions regarding age verification or store availability were not specified in the provided data.
Conclusion
Asda’s approach to free samples and promotional offers combines physical innovation with digital convenience. The trial of the automated vending machine at the Pilsworth store in Bury marks a significant step in in-store sampling, allowing customers to use the Asda Rewards app to claim free products like Müller’s Frijj. This initiative, supported by LS Eleven Media Services, is part of Asda’s wider strategy to increase sales and customer engagement during a period of economic challenge.
Complementing the physical trial, Asda offers a variety of digital freebies and savings. These include cashback opportunities for free pet food, plant-based products, and health shots, as well as substantial discounts for new online grocery customers. While specific details on some offers, such as the over-60s meal deal, remain limited, the overall landscape provides multiple avenues for UK consumers to access free products and savings. Customers interested in these offers should monitor the Asda Rewards app and participating cashback platforms for the most current availability and eligibility requirements.