SOS, a company known for its innovative approach to wellness through a rapidly expanding network of smart vending machines, has announced an exclusive partnership with Ulta Beauty, the leading beauty retailer in the nation. This collaboration is set to revolutionize in-store product discovery by leveraging digital innovation.
The pilot program aims to enhance Ulta Beauty's in-store sampling program and introduce its first-ever digital in-store advertising initiative. The goal is to deepen customer engagement and stimulate growth for brand partners. In addition, SOS machines will provide complimentary Rael period care products, thereby increasing access to essential items within Ulta Beauty stores.
Susanna Twarog, co-founder and co-CEO of SOS, expressed her pride in being recognized by Ulta Beauty to help transform their in-store sampling program and expand their retail media network with digital in-store advertising.
"We’re proud to be recognized by Ulta Beauty to help transform their in-store sampling program and build upon their retail media network with digital in-store advertising,” said Susanna Twarog, co-founder and co-CEO of SOS. “Our partnership not only reinforces our mission to help consumers discover new products when and where they want them, but it provides opportunities for Ulta Beauty to drive growth for brand partners through personalized customer engagement, sampling, media and data collection.”
The SOS machines will be launched in select Ulta Beauty locations across ten cities, including New York, Massachusetts, Florida, California, and Texas. These machines will offer Ultamate Rewards members a seamless sampling experience and encourage new member sign-ups. Members can claim one free sample every week from a variety of travel-sized products from leading brands across cosmetics, skincare, and haircare categories. Non-member guests can also sign up and create an account at the machine to receive a free sample.
In addition to providing a consumer-driven sampling experience, these smart vending machines will serve as dynamic, interactive advertising platforms. They will use digital screens to raise awareness about sampling, launch new products, and convey brand messages.
Maria Salcedo, senior vice president of merchandising at Ulta Beauty, affirmed their commitment to delivering new, engaging ways for guests to experience, try, and fall in love with new products.
“At Ulta Beauty we are committed to delivering new, engaging ways for guests to experience, try, and fall in love with new products.” said Maria Salcedo, senior vice president of merchandising at Ulta Beauty. “Through our pilot program with SOS, we have the ability to learn how guests are engaging with vending machines and digital brand touchpoints in store, opening up new opportunities to transform the beauty shopping experience. This collaboration further exemplifies our dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in beauty retail with a guest centric approach.”
