Social Media Craze Increasing Girl Scout Cookie Sales

January marks the start of Girl Scout Cookie sales nationwide. Although the concept of selling cookies for the organization isn’t new, the way the sales are done has changed over the years.

Before the social media craze hit, most of the Girl Scout Cookie sales were done traveling door-to-door. With the new age of Facebook and Twitter, sales are looking a little bit different.

“In the first phase of our program, girls take orders from friends and family and travel door-to-door following safety measures. Facebook, Twitter, and other social media are becoming more popular each year as a great way for girls to inform their friends that they are taking orders,” said Madelon Koerner, Director of Product Program for the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois.

The online boom has helped Girl Scouts sell more boxes. Thanks to social media and other avenues like email, the average number of boxes sold per girl is 145.

Some might say the online sales take away from the learning process associated with the cookie program, but Girl Scouts of America makes sure that’s not the case.

“It is the Girl Scout’s responsibility to deliver each order to her customers and collect the money due at that time. This enhances her People and Money Management Skills as well as Business Ethics; three of the 5 Skills promoted in the cookie program. Goal Setting and Decision Making are the other two,” Koerner explained.

Technology has enhanced the final stage of Girl Scout Cookie sales as well: the Cookie Booth Sites. In March, Girl Scouts set up shop in various places across their communities.

“The Cookie Locator App is a free download for cell phones that allows customers to search for the nearest booth site in their area! At the booth sites this year, Girl Scouts are encouraged to accept credit card transactions by utilizing a swiper attachment for cell phones. With credit card purchases a viable means for transactions, sales will certainly be on the rise!” Koerner said.

If you are interested in buying cookies from a local scout, check out the new cookie finder on the Scouts’ website to link up with a local troop.