Types of studies you can take part in
From testing products at home to tasting food before it hits the shelves, there’s something for everyone.
We run a wide variety of research studies, so whether you’ve got an hour to spare or fancy something more ongoing, there’ll be opportunities that suit your schedule, your interests, and your lifestyle. You’ll always know exactly what’s involved before you decide and you’re always free to say no to anything that doesn’t feel right.
Home Product Testing
This is our most popular study type… and it’s easy to see why.
Home product testing puts new products in your hands before most people have even heard of them. You’ll use the product as part of your normal routine at home, in your own time, in your own way, and share your honest feedback along the way. No performance required. Just your genuine experience.
Trials vary hugely in length, from a few days to a couple of months, and the products themselves span everything from household appliances and technology to beauty, food, drink, and everyday essentials. If it’s something people use at home, chances are it’s something we test.
Feedback is usually gathered through short online surveys, photos, or short videos — nothing complicated, and always clearly explained before you start.
And the best bit? In many studies, once testing is complete the product is yours to keep. For trials where products need to be returned, we handle all the logistics and work around your schedule to make it as easy as possible.
Good to know: No travel required. Clear instructions and full support throughout. Cash incentives paid promptly — plus sometimes the product itself.
In-Person Product Testing
If you enjoy trying new food and drink, this one’s for you.
Central loation testing involves attending a session at a venue; a hall, event space, or testing facility, where you’ll try products on the day and share your feedback straight away. These sessions are relaxed, well-organised, and run by the Zest team from start to finish.
The focus is often on food and drink taste testing new products, comparing options, or giving your verdict on something that’s about to launch. But we also run in-person sessions for beauty, household products, and technology.
Venues are chosen for easy access and we always share clear travel details in advance.
Sessions vary in length, and some studies include a follow-up session where a smaller group explores the feedback in a bit more depth. (Sadly the office dogs don’t attend CLT sessions. We’ve tried.)
Good to know: Travel details and timings shared clearly in advance. Sessions run on time — we’re very particular about that. Cash incentives paid promptly. Sometimes includes products to try that aren’t yet available anywhere else.
Online Communities & Video Diaries
For those who enjoy sharing their thoughts over time, on their own terms.
Online communities and video diary studies let you contribute little by little, from wherever you are, whenever it suits you. Instead of a single session, you’ll complete short tasks as you go. Answering questions, sharing photos or short videos, or commenting on ideas all through a simple online platform.
Tasks are flexible, clearly explained, and designed to fit around real life. Some communities run for a few days. Others run for weeks, months, or even years. Our longest-running community has been going strong since 2020, with many of the original members still actively contributing today, not because they have to, but because they want to.
Video diary studies work in a similar way. You record short, honest clips about your experiences, thoughts, or reactions as they happen. No script, no performance. Just you, in your own words, in your own time.
Throughout any community or diary study, the Zest team stays close checking in personally, answering questions, and making sure you always feel supported and valued rather than just managed.
Good to know: Take part entirely from home. Flexible tasks that fit around your schedule. Personal support from the Zest team throughout. Incentives paid for your time and contribution.
Focus Groups, Interviews & Discussions
The most straightforward way to have your say and get rewarded for it.
These studies are all about conversation. That might mean joining a small group discussion, taking part in a one-to-one interview, going on an accompanied shopping trip with a researcher, or recording your reactions to something you’ve just seen or tried.
Some happen online from your sofa. Others are face-to-face at a venue or out in the real world. All of them are relaxed, friendly, and guided by experienced moderators who make sure everyone feels comfortable.
You don’t need any special knowledge or preparation. Just your honest opinions, whatever they are. There are no right or wrong answers, no pressure, and no awkward silences. Just you, sharing your perspective, and getting fairly rewarded for your time.
Good to know: Online or in person — plenty of options. Friendly, experienced moderators. No preparation needed — just turn up and be yourself. Cash incentives paid promptly
