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DECEMBER 2016
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Try Before You Buy
Sample subscriptions build yarn makers’ business
We love free samples, and we love
getting them on the regular. In the
vein of beauty‑sample subscription
companies like Ipsy and BirchBox, a
couple of former software engineers have
bolstered a loyal following for their online
yarn business by shipping samples and
patterns on a prepaid subscription basis.
For $10 a month, subscribers receive
Beanie Bags from Reno, Nevada‑based
Jimmy Beans Wool that contain curated
samples of yarns and expert tips as well
as knitting notions or accessories. In
addition to gaining new customers, the
subscription service has allowed Laura
and Doug Zander, the owners of Jimmy
Beans Wool, to collect valuable data on
consumer preferences that help them
curate customer‑centric samples.
Of course, with growth comes growing
pains. Doug Zander was tasked with
developing software to manage customer
data and employees worked overtime
to fill subscription orders, but the result
has been a steadily growing bottom line.
Jimmy Beans also has embraced social
media marketing, relying heavily on
Instagram and on Facebook advertising.
The company won a Facebook advertising
award in the Small Business category this
year for its work on a promotion for the
2016 movie
Eddie the Eagle
.