If you’ve been a long-time reader here, you’re familiar with the Grommet website; or at least the
Pinterest account. Back in 2009 I joined a small start-up who’s mission was to level the playing field for product innovation. Back then it was clear that the best products weren’t getting the exposure and opportunity they’d deserved because the store shelves were being dominated by brands with bigger budgets (and powerful connections). Grommet set out to change that. Grommet flipped the script on how inventors and makers reach shoppers (and how shoppers discover the best products).
I’ve shared part of Grommet’s story here, largely through the lens of our strategy and success using Pinterest for business. From helping pioneer image analytics with strategic partners to proving that unknown products can reach masses (organically) with a solid Pinterest strategy–Grommet’s own 16 year story has been woven through the articles written here. I started this blog 6 years into my tenure at Grommet. It’s continued through my three year stint designing ads for Pinterest, years consulting, and now I’ve found myself back where I began–at Grommet!
I often get questions about Grommet, so I’m answering some of those frequently asked, here.
Is Grommet still in business?
Yes, Grommet is still in business! In August 2023, Grommet relaunched as a true product discovery platform. Grommet connects Shoppers with Makers and small businesses ready to share their innovative products with the world! Since August, Grommet has launched over 550 new products.
Who bought Grommet?
In September 2022, Grommet was acquired by GiddyUp from Ace Hardware who was closing the business. The synergy between GiddyUp’s mission and Grommet’s was undeniable. Both aim to help innovative products succeed and to help shoppers discover things that make their lives a little better.
How is the new Grommet website different?
When it comes to influencing which new products get the most exposure, the new Grommet website puts the power (literally) in the hands of the shoppers. Each week, 20 new products launch on Grommet. Shoppers upvote their favorites helping them rise to the top of the Trending Feed, gaining more visibility and sales. As a “thank you”, Makers reward voters with an exclusive discount they can use to purchase directly from the Maker’s website. Connecting shoppers directly with Makers is a unique feature of the new Grommet.
Is the Grommet website legit?
Yes. Grommet has been an online website since 2008, launching thousands of products that are now household names (like Fitbit, SodaStream, Popsockts, and Mrs. Meyers). Millions of shoppers have purchased from Grommet and receive their daily emails which feature new innovative products. Grommet has “excellant” BBB and Trustpilot ratings. Reach Customer Support at [email protected] (or just email me directly! [email protected])
Where is the Grommet located?
Currently, the Grommet is an online website only. Although Grommet has a historical footprint in Somerville, MA, Grommet is exclusively online in 2024. You can always see what’s new on thegrommet.com!
Facts about the new Grommet website in 2024:
- Grommet relaunched as a discovery platform August 31, 2023
- GiddyUp owns Grommet after acquiring it in September 2022
- Grommet is exclusively an online platform featuring new & innovative products
- Grommet works with small businesses, inventors, and makers
- Grommet has a community of 3 million Shoppers
- Each Thursday, Grommet launches 20 new products
- Since August 2023, Grommet has launched over 550 new products
That’s a quick update on not only, the new Grommet, but where I’ve been as of late! It’s common that my posting here seems to hault when I’m busy! But, my desire to help you grow your small businesses in ways that have you working smarter not harder remains. Heck–if you have a direct to consumer product ready to launch to the world, head over to Grommet and “submit your product” to us! We’re here, ready to share it with millions of Shoppers!
If you have any questions, let me know in the comments!
Tori Tait is sharing her experience as a Content Director and Pinterest expert. Since 2006 she's been helping entrepreneurs build their businesses online through simple & smart marketing strategies.