Informative Blog

When it comes to marketing, it makes sense to invest creatively and effectively. In 2022, on average, companies spent about 9.5% of their total revenue on marketing budgets.

Promotional products represent a strategic option, with 85% of people saying they are more likely to do business with a company after receiving such items. These products range from everyday items to unique gifts, all customizable with your company’s logo, slogan, or colors. They come in various sizes and styles to meet diverse needs and budgets, making them a versatile choice for enhancing brand visibility and engagement.

3 Major Benefits of Promotional Products

Read on to learn some of the best promotional product benefits!

1. Brand Visibility

The first significant benefit of using promotional products is increasing your brand visibility.

Whether you think of it as brand visibility, brand recognition, customer awareness, or simple advertising, handing out products that carry your company’s logo, name, or colors will create more opportunities for everyday consumers to encounter your company.

Promotional products can be given away at career fairs, trade shows, company events, or even in-store to spread brand visibility through your employees and potential customers.

Whenever someone sees your company name or logo, whether posted on a full-sized billboard or printed onto someone’s water bottle, it still serves to spread the word about your brand and familiarize more consumers with it. 

2. Customer Loyalty

Although marketing campaigns often focus on catching the interest of new, prospective customers, it’s also essential to maintain contact with your existing customers.

One way to do this is by supplying them with a useful item they will continue using daily. Each time they use that tote bag, coffee mug, pen, or water bottle, they will be reminded of your company. This practice establishes a more personal connection with your customers, keeping your company fresh on their minds and making them feel more cared about by your company.

3. Cost-Effective Marketing

Promotional items are highly cost-effective marketing tools, offering long-term exposure and brand reinforcement.

These items are typically retained for long periods, providing continuous brand reminders to users and those around them. Moreover, the cost per impression for promotional items is generally low, as they are frequently used and visible to a broad audience. Additionally, these products are highly customizable, allowing size, quality, and type adjustments to fit various budgets, further enhancing their flexibility and appeal in marketing strategies.
 
Visit our website today to connect with us for personal assistance creating high-quality promotional material and any other marketing needs you might have!

In the world of corporate branding, stationery plays a pivotal role in shaping the identity and professionalism of a business.

From business cards to letterhead, each piece of stationery reflects the brand’s values and aesthetic. If you are planning to update your stationary in the near future, these trends not only enhance visual appeal but also ensure that your brand stays relevant and impactful. 

5 Design Trends in Corporate Stationery

1) Eco-Friendly 

Being environmentally conscious is a significant trend.

Consumers, especially Gen Z and Millennial customers, are increasingly focused on purchasing from environmentally responsible companies that care about their environmental impact.

To align with this trend, consider utilizing:

• Sustainably sourced materials, e.g., paper sourced from sustainably managed forests, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
• Recycled materials, e.g., paper made from recycled materials.
• Biodegradable and compostable materials, e.g., pens made from biodegradable materials, notebooks with compostable covers, and packaging that breaks down naturally.
• Natural or non-toxic ink, e.g., soy-based ink made from soybeans instead of petroleum-based ink.

2) Bold Colors

Say goodbye to muted tones and embrace bold, vibrant colors like reds, blues, pinks, and oranges!

Create eye-catching designs by pairing high-contrast colors together and incorporating bold patterns. Be sure to offset bright colors with white to maximize their impact.

3) Watercolors

Watercolors offer a range of creative possibilities for stationery.

Use them to add soft lines, intricate mosaics, or whimsical designs to your notepads or folders. Watercolor artwork can evoke botanical scenes or unique logos, adding a touch of artistic flair to your stationery.

4) Retro Revival

Vintage-inspired designs are making a comeback.

Consider incorporating elements from eras like Art Deco or Mid-Century Modern into your stationery. Art Deco features ornate, elegant patterns and colors like black, gold, and white, while Mid-Century Modern embraces sleek lines, bright colors, and funky geometric patterns.

5) Minimalism

Minimalist designs allow your branding to stand out in a cluttered world.

These designs are easy for consumers to navigate and make a robust and modern statement. Embrace minimalism to create a sleek and sophisticated look for your corporate stationery.

There is a wealth of stylish options available for memorable stationery. Stay on top of the trends by partnering with our experienced local print marketing experts to create contemporary and cost-effective stationery sets.

Our printing professionals cater to all your company’s stationery needs, including calling cards, business cards, envelopes, letterheads, presentation folders, notepads, memos, and more, ensuring your brand stays modern and forward-looking. Contact us today to get started!

Everyone resonates with a good story. Whether funny, sad, or utterly ridiculous, stories have a unique power to stick with us forever.

Your company’s story is no exception. It has the potential to captivate, inspire, and drive action. Research shows that people remember stories 22 times better than facts. So, why not leverage the power of storytelling in your business marketing? 

5 Strategies for Integrating Storytelling into Your Print Marketing

Sharing your company’s story has the power to build, grow, restore, empower, and connect. Here are five ways to start incorporating storytelling into your print marketing. 

1. Company Origin

Share the who, what, when, where, why, and how of your company’s beginnings.

Add a unique twist or perspective to make your story stand out. Include images to bring your story to life and connect with your audience visually.

2. Testimonials

Let your satisfied customers speak for you to gain buy-in and credibility!

By using testimonials of happy customers, you gain the trust of the skeptical future customer by not seeming as pushy or direct in your marketing tactic but more conversational and casual, much like a word-of-mouth referral.

When collecting the testimonials, ask if you can include a picture. Putting a real face to your reviews makes them even more reliable and authentic.

3. Case Studies

Case studies are not just for peer-reviewed journals. 

They are excellent for gaining customer trust and credibility when showcasing your expertise and success. Use visuals like graphs and charts to support your claims. Keep it simple and focused to avoid overwhelming your audience with information. 

4. Be Authentic

“No legacy is so rich as honesty,” a poignant quote by Shakespeare, is an excellent reminder that you must be true to your story and avoid exaggeration or fabrication.

Authenticity builds trust, and over 85% of people are more likely to support honest brands.

5. End with a Call to Action

End your story with a clear call to action.

Whether it’s a QR code for more information or a coupon code for a discount, give your audience a reason to take the next step.

Storytelling within your marketing is a potent tool that can be used to connect and grow relationships with customers, build trust, and increase sales. In the words of Seth Godin, American author and marketing strategist, Remember, “Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” 

Contact our print marketing professionals to begin creating compelling and memorable marketing campaigns that leverage the power of storytelling.

Seasonal marketing campaigns capitalize on the unique opportunities presented by specific times of the year, such as holidays, changing weather, or cultural events.

Whether you’re a small business owner or a marketing professional, planning a successful seasonal marketing campaign is an effective way to attract new customers, retain existing ones, and increase sales during specific times of the year.

Drive Results for Your Business with These 9 Seasonal Marketing Steps

Here’s how you can effectively plan and execute a seasonal marketing campaign.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Before you kick off any marketing campaign, take the time to define your goals clearly.

What specific outcomes are you aiming for with this seasonal campaign? Whether boosting sales, attracting new customers, or enhancing brand recognition, having well-defined goals will serve as your North Star, guiding you through the planning process.

Step 2: Identify Your Target Audience

Understanding the audience you need to reach is the foundation of a successful marketing campaign.

Dive deep into your target audience’s demographics and preferences. This information will enable you to tailor your campaign to resonate with their interests and effectively address their needs.

Step 3: Research Seasonal Trends

Staying informed about the latest seasonal trends and observing competitors’ strategies can provide valuable insights.

Knowing what’s trending and how other businesses leverage seasonal opportunities can help you better position your campaign for success.

Step 4: Set a Budget

Having a well-thought-out budget is vital when planning your seasonal marketing campaign.

By establishing a clear budget, you can make informed decisions on the strategies and tactics that align with your goals while ensuring financial prudence.

Step 5: Create a Timeline

Timing is a critical aspect of seasonal marketing.

Develop a detailed timeline that maps out the campaign launch date, promotion duration, and key dates or events to leverage. A well-structured timeline will help you stay organized and maximize seasonal opportunities.

Step 6: Develop Compelling Creative Content

Capturing your target audience’s attention requires engaging and creative content.

From captivating visuals to compelling copywriting, tailor your content to resonate with your audience and reflect your campaign’s overarching goals.

Step 7: Utilize Multiple Channels

Diversifying your marketing channels is a great way to reach a broader audience.

Integrating digital platforms like social media and email with direct mail can enhance your overall strategy and maximize your campaign’s impact.

Step 8: Track and Measure Results

Once your campaign is live, monitor and evaluate its performance closely.

Track key metrics and analyze results to identify successful strategies and areas for improvement. This data will be critical in informing future seasonal marketing efforts.

Step 9: Engage with Your Customers

Developing solid relationships with your customers is the key to fostering brand loyalty.

Engage with your audience by promptly responding to their comments, addressing queries, and showing appreciation for their support. Nurturing these connections can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty over time.

Let us be your partner in planning and executing seasonal print marketing strategies that drive results for your business. Contact us today, and let’s work together to make this season one of your most profitable yet!

While digital marketing has dominated the advertising world in recent years, it’s essential not to overlook the power of print. 

Print marketing can be a refreshing change from the constant bombardment of online ads, emails, and social media posts. 56% of all consumers trust print marketing more than any other advertising method. Plus, it allows you to reach potential customers who may not spend much time online.

Make Your Mark Today with Print!

If you’re ready to make a lasting impression with your marketing efforts, here are nine out-of-the-box print marketing ideas to get you noticed.

Oversized Mailers

Think big!

Oversized envelopes have the greatest household return on investment (37%) over other mediums like postcards and letter-sized envelopes (29%). You can use this extra space to showcase your brand, products, or services in a visually appealing and compelling way.

3D Pop-Up Cards

Bring that same wonder and surprise of 3D pop-up books to your print marketing with 3D pop-up cards.

These interactive pieces are eye-catching and provide a tactile experience for the recipient, making them more likely to remember your brand.

Magnetic Calendars

Looking for a way to stay top of mind with your customers all year long?

Consider creating magnetic calendars that can be easily attached to filing cabinets, refrigerators, or other metal surfaces. These calendars are practical for daily use and serve as constant reminders of your business.

Brochures with QR Codes

Make your print materials interactive by including QR codes that lead to exclusive content or special offers.

The modern touch of a QR code builds a bridge between your physical and digital materials, allowing you to track engagement and gather customer data.

Die-Cut Business Cards

Stand out from the sea of rectangular business cards by opting for a unique die-cut shape.

This will not only make your card more visually appealing, but it can also reflect your brand’s personality and creativity.

Custom Stickers

Who doesn’t love stickers?

Create custom stickers with your brand message or logo to give out at events, include them in orders, or use them as a fun way to personalize packaging. These small but impactful items can go a long way in promoting your business.

Personalized Notepads

Everyone needs a notepad to jot down quick notes or reminders.

Take advantage of this by creating personalized notepads with your logo and brand colors. This is a subtle but effective way to keep your business top of mind.

Mini Brochures

Sometimes, less is more, which is where mini brochures come in handy.

These compact, folded pieces are perfect for handing out at events, including in mailers or displaying on countertops. They allow you to share important information about your business without overwhelming the reader.

Scratch-Off Cards

Create custom scratch-off cards with discounts, prizes, or other incentives to encourage people to engage with your brand.

This is a fun and interactive way to promote your business while creating excitement and buzz.

Branded Packaging

Take your print marketing further by incorporating your brand into your packaging materials.

This can include custom tissue paper, stickers, or even branded boxes or bags that make receiving a package from your business feel like a unique experience.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try something new – it may be the key to getting noticed in today’s crowded advertising landscape. So start printing and promoting your business in a whole new way! 

Are you ready to take your print marketing to the next level? Contact us today, and let us help you create eye-catching and unique materials that will get your business noticed. 

Packaging is like the silent hero of brand building, quietly shaping perceptions.

While companies hustle with advertising and promos, packaging silently weaves brand identities. In today’s competitive market, packaging reigns supreme. It shields the product and wields marketing magic. 

Discover the Top 10 Reasons Why Packaging Rules in Brand Building

First Impression

Packaging is often the first touchpoint that consumers have with a brand.

It is your chance to make a positive and memorable first impression on potential customers. A well-designed and attractive package can grab their attention and entice them to learn more about your product.

Differentiation

Packaging can be the differentiating factor for your brand in a sea of similar products.

A unique and eye-catching package design can make your product stand out on store shelves and create a lasting impression on consumers.

Brand Identity

Packaging is an excellent way to express your brand’s identity and values to consumers.

The colors, fonts, and imagery used on the package convey the brand’s personality and help customers connect with it on a deeper level.

Brand Recognition

Consistent packaging design across all products can help create brand recognition.

When consumers see your distinctive packaging, they will immediately associate it with your brand and products, making it easier for them to identify and choose your products in the future.

Consumer Trust

Packaging can also build consumer trust in your brand.

A well-designed package that displays essential information such as ingredients, nutrition facts, and certifications can instill confidence in consumers about your product’s quality and safety.

Shelf Appeal

In a crowded retail environment, the packaging is your product’s best chance to stand out and grab consumers’ attention.

Good packaging can create shelf appeal and entice customers to pick up and examine your product.

Marketing Tool

Packaging has now become an effective marketing tool for brands.

It can serve as a mini billboard that showcases your brand’s message, values, and unique selling points. It can also include promotional offers or call-to-actions to encourage customers to try your product.

Brand Extension

Packaging plays a crucial role in brand extension strategies.

With the right packaging design, a brand can introduce new products under the same umbrella and leverage its existing brand equity to generate sales.

Protection

Besides its marketing benefits, packaging also serves a practical purpose: protecting the product during storage and transportation.

A sturdy and well-designed package can prevent damage and ensure the product reaches consumers in good condition.

Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Packaging is not just about aesthetics; it can also create a positive customer experience.

Customers who receive a well-packaged product are likelier to share their experience, which can lead to positive word-of-mouth marketing for your brand.

Packaging is not just about protecting the product; it is a powerful marketing tool that can create a lasting impression on consumers and drive sales. Brands that understand the importance of packaging and invest in it can reap the benefits of increased brand recognition, consumer trust, and loyalty. 

Don’t overlook the power of packaging in your brand-building strategy. Contact us to learn how we can help create a distinctive and effective packaging design for your products. Let us help you make a lasting impression on consumers and stand out in a crowded marketplace. 

If you’ve ever thrown yourself headlong into a spring-cleaning overhaul, you know the explosive power a little added sunshine can bring.

As April showers bring May flowers, people are ready to move, make decisions, and yes . . . to SPEND. According to the Forbes 2023 Spending Breakdown, people were especially excited to spend money on vehicles and parts, building materials and gardening supplies, food and beverages, and all kinds of Do-It-Yourself projects last May.

If you’re looking to boost business and energize your spring marketing, consider these themes.

Small Business Week (April 28-May 4, 2024)

Did you know National Small Business Week happens annually in the first week of May?

Raise awareness about your small business and celebrate the hard-working team behind you. Consider running a deal-a-day for the week, printing coupons that can only be redeemed May 2-8, or offering onsite contests, classes, or special events.

Increase exposure with advanced postcards, spring sale QR code mailers, or other relevant hashtags (like #nationalsmallbusinessweek) to spread your message.

Kentucky Derby Day (May 4, 2024)

The Derby is a wonderful way to energize your May kickoff if you love color.

From big heels to floppy hats, harness the horsepower to do something fun with your spring marketing. Consider horse-themed decorations, “sprint to the savings” sales, and derby-themed promotions, decorations, and giveaways.

Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6-10, 2024)

Everyone loves to be noticed, and teachers are no exception.

When Target launched its exclusive offer giving teachers a 15% discount on select supplies, the three-day promotion garnered national media attention and hype on many teacher advocacy websites.

As many brands have discovered, creating exclusive promotions for teachers (or selling teacher appreciation items to people who love educators) can boost brand loyalty. Send a goodie bag from your business to a neighborhood school, offer teacher-specific savings, or create special “thank a teacher” gifts. Drum up sales with postcards, posters, and social media posts.

Mother’s Day (May 12, 2024)

Mother’s Day is a big day for US consumers.

According to the National Retail Foundation, consumers planned to spend $35.7 billion to celebrate it in 2023 (that’s around $274 per person!). 

How can you help your customers celebrate? Popular themes include self-care, pampering, a “well-deserved break,” a technology upgrade, or treating mothers to something they might not splurge for alone.

Slogans might include:

• An extra surprise for mom
• Give your mother something MORE
• BOGO: Treat your mom, treat yourself!
• Time Together: The Best Gift of All
• Mother’s Day Plans? DONE.
• Or (for procrastinators): CRISIS AVERTED (we’ve got last-minute gifts for mom)

From May Day baskets to Memorial Day BBQs, May is just FUN. Start planning now to create some May buzz around your business! Contact us today to kickstart your marketing efforts and elevate your business presence.

According to International News Media Association research, print readers devote 20 minutes or more to a publication, while digital readers spend less than five minutes. If you’re aiming to capture your audience’s attention, print materials, like brochures, are the way to go. 

The standard tri-fold brochure does the job well, but if you want to elevate its effectiveness, maybe it’s time for something different. Enter the gatefold!

A gatefold is a document folding method that creates curiosity or increases impact. Like elegant double French doors opening into a spacious room, the left and right panels of a gatefold brochure open and close toward each other, touching at the center instead of folding on top of each other as standard tri-folds do.

Why Consider a Gatefold?

Not sure how or why to experiment with this design? Here are several reasons, including practical examples.

Visually Striking Design

Gatefolds offer an effective way to create a visually striking design, as the “gates” can reveal different sections of the content when opened and closed.

Example: A gatefold brochure featuring two beach chairs in white sand invites readers to “dive in,” exploring a travel brochure to find the best getaway destinations or detailed reservation information.

Interactive Experiences

Gatefolds create interactive experiences for readers because the journey into the multi-fold brochure makes each step more dramatic.

Example: Two grandiose colonial brochure doors are opened to reveal a “proven process” illustration with the step-by-step consulting journey for the customer’s next major home renovation project.

Ideal for Promotional Materials

Gatefolds are ideal for promotional materials because marketers can include a lot of information in a small, single publication.

Double gatefolds add even more panels, operating as a book that opens with another interior section unfolded on both halves of the brochure (resulting in eight panels total).

Example: Like a magazine featuring a giant foldout of your favorite perfume (samples included!), this poster within a booklet format creates a spacious insert that tucks away nicely for mailers, displays, or as a compact handout for trade shows and events.

Cost-Effective Method to Increase Print Space

Gatefolds increase print space while saving money on mailers.

Because of the condensed format, gatefolds are a smart option for your next newsletter, party invitation, menu, or brochure.

Example: A booklet-style mailer unfolds into a six-step interactive map (QR codes included!) of a featured college campus or a financial planning checklist.

Customizable

Gatefolds can be customized in various ways, such as adding die-cut shapes, including interior coupons or tearaways, or using different paper stocks and finishes to make the piece stand out.

Example: Front brochure panels for a pet adoption service could include peek-a-boo cutouts revealing the deep brown eyes of a puppy inside – one waiting for his forever home.

Because gatefolds encourage readers to explore inside, these designs create perfect places to tuck away important information, beautiful artwork, or detailed product information.

Bring a touch of elegance and sophistication by adding a gatefold to your next print publication! Contact us today to explore all the options and find the perfect fold option for your next project. 

When it comes to marketing for your company, direct mail can be a powerful tool. It helps you to increase brand awareness, connect with potential customers, advertise new products or special promotions, and stay in touch with existing customers.

73% of American consumers say they prefer brands to contact them via direct mail rather than online advertisements. Clearly, direct mail can be a useful channel, and it’s important that you learn more about how to make the most of your direct mail campaigns.

Incorporating various finishing techniques can be pivotal to ensure your mail grabs attention. Among the most common are glossy and matte finishes, each possessing distinct attributes that warrant consideration before determining the ideal choice for your next endeavor.

The Basics of Glossy vs. Matte Finishing

Glossy Finish

A glossy finish is your best option if your vision for the piece is vivid colors and sharply defined images.

The smooth, shiny finish will give the product a characteristic shine, creating a polished and modern look. A glossy finish also has the added benefit of durability since the coating prevents scratches or scuffs in transit.

The physical texture of a print with a glossy finish will be smooth and slick to the touch. A glossy finish works well for any materials that include photos or important graphics, magazines, brochures, postcards, and most other marketing pieces.

Although it varies depending on the specific product, a glossy finish will typically have a higher cost than a matte finish since more coating is used to achieve the high-gloss effect.

Overall, a glossy finish is typically more popular for promotional pieces or marketing materials due to the eye-catching effect of the vivid colors and high-shine finish.

Matte Finish

A matte finish is the right option for you if you’re looking for a soft, muted, elegant, or classic feel for your piece. A product with a matte finish will have a physical texture that is almost velvety and more natural.

It is important to note that matte finishing typically has less durability than glossy finish. However, two benefits of using a matte finish are that products with matte finishes have reduced glare and are less prone to being smudged by fingerprints. Also, matte finishing will typically be a more affordable alternative than glossy finishing for most print projects.

Matte finishing is popular for high-end catalogs, more elegant or formal-looking marketing pieces (such as invitations), posters or art prints, business cards, and more.

Keep these things in mind when deciding which finish to use for your next printing project. Visit our website today for high-quality printing services to help you achieve your printing goals!

Print marketing plays a crucial role in effectively communicating with your current and potential customers. Author and motivational speaker Jim Rohn once said, “If you just communicate, you can get by. But if you communicate skillfully, you can work miracles,” highlighting the importance of connecting well with your customers.

Every business aims to enhance customer service and engagement, but where do you start? What’s the secret to success? Print marketing is a critical factor in improving customer service and engagement. From door hangers, brochures, and catalogs to business cards, direct mail, and postcards, print marketing offers a versatile and effective way to communicate with your customers, fostering a personal connection and building trust.  

Print Marketing: A Trusted Choice

Printed materials are increasingly seen as trustworthy and reliable in an era of digital overload.

82% of consumers trust print advertisements the most when making purchase decisions, with 56% considering print the most trustworthy form of marketing. Building trust is essential for growing a business; investing in quality print marketing can help establish that trust. 

Tell Your Story

Print marketing is also an excellent method of telling your company’s story.

Whether sharing your origin story, highlighting team members, or showcasing leadership bios, print materials offer a tangible and engaging way to connect with your audience. In a 2018 survey of consumer preferences, 65% of respondents believe they understand a story more deeply when reading in print. Engage with customers by sharing your story on quality print marketing materials.

Increase Engagement

Reading printed materials has also been shown to boost customer attention and retention of information. 

Studies show that people scan a website for about 15 seconds on average. This small window of time is crucial in making a great impression. But you have people’s attention for longer when they’re reading print. People read slower when reading text on paper than when reading a web page, leading to increased recall and retention rates. This improved memory of what they read about your business transfers to brand recognition, interest, and potential sales.

When customers interact with print marketing materials, they engage their senses, including sight, touch, sound, and smell. This multi-sensory experience creates a lasting impression and enhances brand recognition and recall. By investing in quality print marketing materials, you can create a memorable and engaging experience for your customers, helping your business stand out in a crowded digital landscape.

Connect with our print marketing experts today to improve your engagement and customer satisfaction through printed marketing materials. Our team is committed to helping your business grow and succeed through effective and efficient print marketing strategies.