About Us

Benchmark Sensory Strategy & Research is a full service research agency which specialises in the consumer sensory evaluation of FMCG’s (Fast Moving Consumer Goods). When it comes to researching food and beverages which involve the senses, more than basic market research knowledge is required. Sensory evaluation expertise is necessary to achieve a proper test design and reliable, robust results. The Benchmark research team are highly trained sensory research professionals with backgrounds in food science, psychology, statistics and FMCG manufacturing.

Our business is to help make your product a success!

At Benchmark, our experienced team is passionate about FMCG’s and helping clients improve their position in the market place. We conduct sensory research/evaluation to the highest standard and tailor each project to suit your product research needs.

We strive to develop trusted long term relationships to:

- provide deeper insights into your products and their competitors
– track how they perform over time and
– help your business grow by sharing the best solution for your sensory needs.

We believe every producer of FMCG’s should strive to be #1 in their category. This can be achieved with the right strategy and research.

RESEARCH TEAM

Anne-Marie Haydon

Managing Director & Founder

Anne-Marie is a Food Scientist who loves nothing more than seeing her clients reaction when their product achieves a great sensory result. With over 20 years experience in sensory research, she has seen the benefits of products holding the sensory advantage over their competitors.

Anne-Marie was formerly a Research Director at SensoMetrics, Australia’s premier sensory research company founded by world-renowned sensory researcher, the late Dr Robert McBride. Anne-Marie worked directly with, and learnt from Dr McBride during her 14 years at SensoMetrics. During this time she conducted research to the highest standard for many of Australia’s leading FMCG companies, as well as international clients, across an extensive array of product categories. With the retirement of Dr McBride, Anne-Marie began Benchmark.

Caroline McQuade

Senior Research Manager

Caroline is a creative and strategic consumer sensory researcher who has conducted research for many of Australia’s leading FMCG companies. Caroline has over 15 years experience as a researcher and analyst. Caroline also began her research career at SensoMetrics under the tuition of Dr McBride.

Passionate about understanding human behaviour, with a background in psychology, Caroline has strong analytical skills, extensive experience in complex statistical analysis, and comprehensive market analyst experience.

Lauren Dulhunty

Research Manager

Lauren is also a Food Scientist and gained 1st Class recognition for her Honours thesis on ‘How Fermentation Conditions Effect the Properties of Kombucha’.

Lauren has an eagle eye for detail and a hunger for uncovering consumer preference in food and beverages.