Ever wondered what really goes on behind the beauty counters at Boots? A former perfume counter employee has stepped forward to reveal the money-saving secrets that could transform your fragrance shopping experience.
The Golden Hour for Perfume Shopping
According to the insider, timing is everything when it comes to scoring the best deals. Weekday mornings between 10am and 12pm are apparently the perfect window for perfume purchases. Why? The store is typically quieter, meaning staff have more time to offer personalised service and you're more likely to receive those coveted free samples.
Sample Secrets Every Shopper Should Know
Want to try before you buy? The former employee suggests being strategic about your requests. "Don't be shy about asking for samples," they advise. "But the key is to be specific about what you're looking for and show genuine interest in the products."
Staff often have hidden sample stashes that aren't on display, so building rapport with counter staff can unlock access to exclusive trial sizes and promotional items.
When to Shop for Maximum Savings
The insider revealed that certain times of year offer better value than others:
- January sales - Post-Christmas clearances often include fragrance gift sets
- Spring - New season launches mean last season's stock may be discounted
- Black Friday - Watch for bundle deals and exclusive promotions
- End of financial quarters - Staff may be more motivated to meet targets with extra incentives
Building Relationships Pays Off
Regular customers who take the time to get to know staff members often receive preferential treatment. "We remembered our loyal customers and would often save special samples or let them know about upcoming promotions before they were advertised," the former employee confessed.
Simple gestures like remembering staff names and being pleasant can make all the difference in your shopping experience and the deals you might receive.
What Really Happens With Testers
Contrary to popular belief, testers aren't just randomly selected bottles. The insider explained that testers are specifically designated for counter use and cannot be sold, even when the packaging appears pristine. However, they did note that towards the end of a product's lifecycle, some testers might be cleared through special staff sales.
The revelation serves as a reminder that building good relationships with retail staff and shopping strategically can lead to significant savings on your favourite fragrances.
