Increasingly, we are asked by our members to use the DIARY directory platform - as a space used by PRs and press alike - to offer industry ‘codes of conduct', often simply in order to help the relationships involved run smoothly.

It is not our intention to make accusations, but simply to make suggestions, clarify aspects some may be unsure of, and open up constructive discussion.

We sought feedback from several sources, both press and PRs, before posting this piece - thank you for all the input! If you would like to comment / point out an aspect we have missed; or if you have an area you would like us to try and address – do let me know! Holly

Selling on PR samples

For journalists / influencers:

• Do not sell PR samples received. Be aware that some brands will actively pursue people selling PR samples through, for example, eBay or Depop
• Do not request free PR samples that you do not genuinely intend to photograph / review / sample
• Unwanted and unused toiletries could be donated to a local food bank, or to Beauty Banks (see below). But please note that many brands, particularly beauty and toiletries, may consider charity shops selling donated samples to be entering into a grey market. Ask the PR for acceptable suggestions. 

For PRs

• Be mindful of and consider the number of unsolicited, and possibly unwanted, samples you are sending out
• Reducing the amount of packaging for PR samples is not only good for the environment, but may also help prevent direct resale
• Make it clear when sending the samples that they are not for resale, an implicit contract is then entered into. If possible, suggest what the brand would consider to be an acceptable and practical alternative for unwanted samples.

One suggested outlet for unwanted beauty samples is Beauty Banks, run by Jo Jones of The Communications Store and beauty journalist, Sali Hughes.

Unused samples can be sent to Beauty Banks, c/o The Communications Store, 2 Kensington Square, London W8 5EP. 

“Beauty Banks is a great initiative that aims to help those living in hygiene poverty and we wanted to be able to help. As well as introducing these donation points in some key Manchester stores, we’ve installed a donation point in our head office and are looking to roll it out to other stores in the new year. The donation bins have a suggested list of products that are most useful to those living in hygiene poverty and whilst we are happy to receive unwanted products for health, safety and hygiene reasons all products that are donated must be unopened and unused. We also cannot accept nail varnish, nail varnish remover or perfume.” - 
Gemma Mason, Head of Customer Experience at Superdrug