Thinking about marketing this product. What do you think?

28 replies
I bought some military caffeine gum through Amazon yesterday to test out. I want to try and sell it to local mom/pop convenience stores in rural areas (here in Texas).

According to the Amazon reviews some people really do not like the taste of it; but I think I can play off of it by using that to my advantage. I am thinking of placing a display ad in a local weekly with something like this:

"Military Gum...the tuffest gum on the planet"
or
"Military Gum....If it's tuff enough for our soliders, It's good enough for you"
or
"Ask for the Gum the U.S. Military uses!" (BTW it is used by the military)

I want to try and play up the exclusivity of the gum. Kind of like "it's not for everyone...only those who can handle it".

Eduardo
#marketing #product #thinking
  • Profile picture of the author Mr.S
    Slogan is good but now why would I buy military gum rather than hundreds of other available? What is my benefit. If you try to sell people something you need to think about what's in it for them. Create a list of benefits if you find them of course, otherwise I don't see much success with it. This is only my opinion so do your research and don't get discouraged
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3266273].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by Mr.S View Post

      Slogan is good but now why would I buy military gum rather than hundreds of other available? What is my benefit. If you try to sell people something you need to think about what's in it for them. Create a list of benefits if you find them of course, otherwise I don't see much success with it. This is only my opinion so do your research and don't get discouraged
      Thanks Mr. S.,
      Well the gum is supposed to keep you awake and alert while still working or studying, something you cannot do with a drink (like 5 Hour Energy or Redbull); you are able to continue working while chewing; it's also smaller to carry around than a beverage; which is why the military came up with it to their soldiers (they still use it by the way).

      Thanks for the suggestions
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3266429].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RaptorGabe
    HAHAHAHAH really? Never heard of this, but def update us on how it goes. IMers and selling gum, who wouldve thinked it . For advertising I would suggest going to Local Colleges and paying Students to sell it for you, to create a little buzz. College students would kill for something like this, and nothing is more viral then a college student. Also, local news will pay attention to schools, so you have a very good chance of getting a even bigger buzz if they pick it up
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3267108].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by RaptorGabe View Post

      HAHAHAHAH really? Never heard of this, but def update us on how it goes. IMers and selling gum, who wouldve thinked it . For advertising I would suggest going to Local Colleges and paying Students to sell it for you, to create a little buzz. College students would kill for something like this, and nothing is more viral then a college student. Also, local news will pay attention to schools, so you have a very good chance of getting a even bigger buzz if they pick it up
      Hey RaptorGabe THANKS!!!
      I never thought of that. I will market them to students.
      Sending you a big thanks!!

      I may market this by direct mail as well...
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3267554].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Kevin AKA Hubcap
        Target non only students but the 'typical' users of energy drinks like Red Bull and be sure to capitalize on how and why its used in the military.

        "This gum can keep a SEAL team awake and alert when it matters the most. Imagine what if can do for your productivity..."

        I know kinda hokey but it's off the top of my head. You get the idea.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3267928].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
          Originally Posted by Kevin AKA Hubcap View Post

          Target non only students but the 'typical' users of energy drinks like Red Bull and be sure to capitalize on how and why its used in the military.

          "This gum can keep a SEAL team awake and alert when it matters the most. Imagine what if can do for your productivity..."

          I know kinda hokey but it's off the top of my head. You get the idea.
          I have a stupid question? Can I use the "SEAL" name or for that matter can I use the "ARMY" word or "MARINE" in my advertising? Just wondering. If I can then it just opens up the possibility for a lot more options.
          Signature
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3270782].message }}
          • Profile picture of the author myob
            Originally Posted by flowbee77 View Post

            I have a stupid question? Can I use the "SEAL" name or for that matter can I use the "ARMY" word or "MARINE" in my advertising? Just wondering. If I can then it just opens up the possibility for a lot more options.
            If you use these in any way shape or form as an endorsement, you could get shot. Just kidding, but it is illegal.
            {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3271127].message }}
            • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
              Originally Posted by myob View Post

              If you use these in any way shape or form as an endorsement, you could get shot. Just kidding, but it is illegal.
              Good to know. I think I will use either the words "military" or "USA Troops" then...don't want to get shot
              Signature
              {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3272810].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hans8233
    I'd try some
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3267136].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author InvestedSuccess
    Why not market it as "military grade" hence implying that it's a "tough" gum. Another approach is to void the military aspect, and focus more on the energy/caffeine (get creative or study what Redbull, Monster, and 5 hour energy have already done and build on that). Whatever you do, it sounds like you'll have a great product once you've created your strategy!

    All The Best,
    Feature Cuts
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3267953].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by InvestedSuccess View Post

      Why not market it as "military grade" hence implying that it's a "tough" gum. Another approach is to void the military aspect, and focus more on the energy/caffeine (get creative or study what Redbull, Monster, and 5 hour energy have already done and build on that). Whatever you do, it sounds like you'll have a great product once you've created your strategy!

      All The Best,
      Feature Cuts
      Thanks Feature Cuts!
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3270785].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author MWGrubb58
    Another place to market would be for people who have to work at night... or security people... or night students... or night driving truck drivers... or as a quick pick-me-up after a big lunch.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3271056].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by MWGrubb58 View Post

      Another place to market would be for people who have to work at night... or security people... or night students... or night driving truck drivers... or as a quick pick-me-up after a big lunch.
      Thanks for the ideas!
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3272804].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author bigredrassler
    The best marketing spin on this isn't the military use, though that could play, the best hook for this product is the fact that you can use it without interrupting things.

    A woman walking down the street late at night, obviously on her way to an after hours party, takes a shot of an energy drink and while slamming it back she trips over a crack in the sidewalk. A man walks past her, pops a piece of gum. Voice Over "Hey, you can walk and chew gum at the same time, can't you? Caffiene gum, don't drink and energize!"

    Just a rough idea, but that would be a great little video to create for presentations to potential customers, if you can get ahold of the manufacturer, you may have the first product for an mlm business or something. Just a thought.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3272872].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Great Idea, I actually have access to someone who does short films. So I will definitely check that option out. sounds kind of like a video business card in away.

      Originally Posted by bigredrassler View Post

      The best marketing spin on this isn't the military use, though that could play, the best hook for this product is the fact that you can use it without interrupting things.

      A woman walking down the street late at night, obviously on her way to an after hours party, takes a shot of an energy drink and while slamming it back she trips over a crack in the sidewalk. A man walks past her, pops a piece of gum. Voice Over "Hey, you can walk and chew gum at the same time, can't you? Caffiene gum, don't drink and energize!"

      Just a rough idea, but that would be a great little video to create for presentations to potential customers, if you can get ahold of the manufacturer, you may have the first product for an mlm business or something. Just a thought.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3276932].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author cbest
    Truckstops would definitely be a place to check with.. do some pre-sales on forums to get the word out..
    Signature

    Offline/Online Coupon App free coupon for your clients coming soon.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3273322].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by cbest View Post

      Truckstops would definitely be a place to check with.. do some pre-sales on forums to get the word out..
      I think I am going to give away some free samples at a truck stops. I have a friend who owns one.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3277127].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Smokin Joe
    I know this is the offline forum, but I like the idea. If you put up a dite pm me and I will give you a few links.

    Good Luck
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3275454].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author lindyb52
    First.....give some away to friends.....and see how they like the taste.
    Also, ask them if it works!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3275626].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author sbeard
    You might consider JVing with a distributor, vending machine business, or someone who has a regular route to all the truck stops, small stores, etc. Thats the way much of the small items get to rural locations.
    Signature

    Steve Beard
    www.webvideoexpert.com
    See our Video and VoiceOver Demos.... Fast Service - Studio Quality - Street Prices
    Professional Branding Service- You Provide the Content - We Make It Look Great!
    Free download... Video Creation Short Course

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3277351].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author flowbee77
      Originally Posted by sbeard View Post

      You might consider JVing with a distributor, vending machine business, or someone who has a regular route to all the truck stops, small stores, etc. Thats the way much of the small items get to rural locations.
      Thanks Sbeard,
      Do I Just approach distributors and ask them how much? Or will they tell me how much? 50%?

      Sorry for all the questions but I am not that familiar with vending distributors.
      Signature
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3277534].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Pubster
    Originally Posted by flowbee77 View Post

    I bought some military caffeine gum through Amazon yesterday to test out. I want to try and sell it to local mom/pop convenience stores in rural areas (here in Texas).

    According to the Amazon reviews some people really do not like the taste of it; but I think I can play off of it by using that to my advantage. I am thinking of placing a display ad in a local weekly with something like this:

    "Military Gum...the tuffest gum on the planet"
    or
    "Military Gum....If it's tuff enough for our soliders, It's good enough for you"
    or
    "Ask for the Gum the U.S. Military uses!" (BTW it is used by the military)

    I want to try and play up the exclusivity of the gum. Kind of like "it's not for everyone...only those who can handle it".

    Eduardo
    I think you would have luck around College Campuses and Truck Stops with this item.
    Signature

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3291280].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author brittney marie
    Distribute some of them to your friends if possible so that you will get to know the review.This is what i think...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3291956].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rus Sells
    G.I. Joe Gum - Kung Foo Grip Your Taste Buds

    or something like that. lol
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3294008].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author corycrabb
    wow never heard of anything like "military gum" before lol
    Signature

    (Ask to join our marketing mastermind group in facebook)
    ~ Enter Here ~
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3294014].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Creativegirl
    Great thread and unusual product! Of course it takes like crap, why else would our guys and gals get it? The military angle is great, especially here in Texas but I agree with those that say promote the benefits of the gum. Let the tag line or marketing/advertising theme play off the military angle. Good luck.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3294071].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author mindykoch
    Another complimentary product line you might wish to consider is "Revive" Energy Mints of FOOSH or VOJO. A gal I know got Revive Mints into a Walmart in Hawaii and did quite well.
    Signature

    ~Social Media Experiment~
    Social Drivers

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[3294694].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author moneymax
    Market it to Paramedics...I am in line to buy it if it keeps me awake on those long shifts. sign me up.
    Signature

    Dropcards Work. Make your own. https://DropCardTemplate.com/

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6216036].message }}

Trending Topics