Below are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions

What is McCormick Consumer Testing?

McCormick Consumer Testing uses the opinions of consumers, like you, to guide the product development process for a variety of food and beverage products.

How does it work?

Using our database of registered consumers, we target individuals that meet the demographic requirements of the product being tested. You'll receive an email from our unique automated system inviting you to answer some questions for an upcoming consumer test. Once you have answered the questions, you will be informed as to whether or not you qualify for that specific test. If you are eligible to participate, you will be provided with the session times and you can then choose the one session, if any, which best suits you. Not everyone will qualify for each test, so even if you do not qualify, you will be contacted for future testing opportunities.

When and how often do you conduct testing?

We conduct tests Monday - Friday, during day and evening hours. Testing occurs on an ad-hoc basis.

How often can I participate?

A consumer may participate in a consumer test up to four times a year, once every three months. Once you participate in a test, you will not be eligible to be emailed for the next three months. There is no limit as to the number of times you can take part in an internet survey.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions typically run between thirty minutes and two hours. You will be informed of the test duration in the introduction of the survey.

Where are tests held?

Consumer tests are held at our headquarters in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire at Haddenham Business Park, HP17 8LB. Occasionally, we send products to your home for you to prepare, taste and evaluate. Additionally surveys are sent via the internet to be completed. If you are not local to Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, you may join our database of nationwide consumers to participate in Home Use Tests and Internet surveys.

Am I compensated for my time?

Yes. The compensation for each test conducted at our facility ranges from £10 to £50 given in the form a of a gift card/voucher. Compensation for tests done in your home typically ranges from £5 to £20 given in the form of a gift card/voucher. The amount of compensation is determined by the duration of the test and the number of products tested. Prize draws are held for Internet surveys to win a gift card.

What form is my compensation?

Compensation when participating in testing at our Haddenham facility and Home Use Testing is by gift voucher/card. Compensation for completing an Internet Survey is by a prize draw for a gift voucher/card which will be awarded via email.

How will I be notified to participate in a test?

When we are recruiting for a test, our automated system emails consumers who are registered in our database who meet the basic demographic requirements for that particular test. Sessions often fill up quickly, so it is recommended that you respond to the survey as soon as possible. You do not, however, need to wait to hear from us. Feel free to log onto our website to see if there are any surveys available for upcoming consumer testing opportunities.