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Grab the Freebies!
Everyone likes receiving things for free!
Recent research has highlighted the increasing number of companies using product samples as part of their online marketing strategy.

Olay, Ariel, Garnier, Pampers and L'Oréal are just some of the household names distributing samples in an effort to drum-up support for their products. So far this year, anti-wrinkle cream, tea bags, perfume, moisturiser, along with numerous other items have been offered free of charge via the Web.

According to the recent study approximately 50% of people who sample a product will likely purchase the item in future. Of these, 25% can be expected to purchase the product more than once. Figures also show that over 65% of respondents would feel more confident recognising the sampled item 'on the shelf'.

The research found the trend is particularly prominent in the beauty industry. Two in three cosmetics companies are now offering samples or competitions as part of their online promotional campaigns. In 2004 the number was only one in three. The study also found that word of mouth is an important factor, with over 25% saying they would recommend sampled products to friends and family.

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Webinar to explore AMR in vet dentistry

News Story 1
 The WSAVA has invited veterinary professionals to a webinar on responsible antibiotic usage in dentistry.

On 19 November 2025, at 1am, Dr J Scott Weese and Dr Brooke Niemiec will share the latest advice for antimicrobial use. They will present research on oral bacterology, and explain how attendees can choose appropriate antibiotics.

The session will cover pre-, intra- and post-operative guidelines, with recommendations for various pathologies.

The webinar is designed to support veterinary professionals to make informed decisions and tackle antimicrobial resistance.

Attendees can register here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue reaches Wales for first time in 2025

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has revealed that bluetongue has been confirmed in Wales for the first time in 2025.

In their latest statistics, APHA records a total of 109 cases of BTV-3 or BTV-8 in Great Britain in the 2025-2026 vector season.

The total number of BTV-3 cases in Great Britain this season is 107. This includes 103 cases within the England restricted zone and four cases in Wales.

There has also been two cases of BTV-8, which were both in Cornwall.

As a result of the cases in Wales, a Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) is enforced in Monmouthshire. Animals can move freely under general license within the England Restricted Zone, however animals with suspected bluetongue must stay on their holding.

All premises testing positive for blue tongue can be viewed on this map.