4 Marketing Ideas to Attract More 

Shoppers to Your Small Business

Supporting small businesses is a vital part of thriving communities, and it's something that should be celebrated and practiced year-round.

In a post-COVID economy, consumers are eager to support small businesses. One Consumer Pulse study showed that 93% of Americans believe supporting small businesses they value is important, and 9 out of 10 shoppers said this is even more essential after the pandemic.

As further proof, Small Business Saturday has emerged as a significant retail event during the busiest shopping season for small businesses. In 2022, projected spending reached an estimated $17.9 billion, as the 2022 SBS Consumer Insights Survey reported.

4 Fun Ideas for Getting More Shoppers in the Door of Your Small Business

Consumers' goodwill and awareness of the importance of small businesses create a massive opportunity. Here are four ideas to kickstart your creativity.

1. Capitalize on Curb Appeal

Part of the charm of shopping at small businesses is the experience, so make it fun for people to step through your doors!

Try sidewalk A-frame banners or a freebies table with magnets, custom notepads, or samples. Advertise in advance and reward people who participate in your highlighted theme (like a 15% discount to anyone wearing plaid or area sports team merchandise). Or collaborate with area merchants on a "Deals Near-BUY" flyer to build momentum in your neighborhood.

2. Reward Referrals

While your brand may serve customers beyond your region, an enormous 85% of business owners depend on word-of-mouth referrals, so actively influencing friends and neighbors is vital!

Bump up referrals by mailing a Buy One/Get One coupon. Or pump up a "Bring a Buddy" event with food tasting, demonstrations, free drawings, or a fun in-store activity.

3. Personalize Advertisements

When promoting your small business, highlight testimonies or quotes from real local customers.

Try before and after pictures, photos of your customers in well-loved parks, or advertisements featuring your content in front of an area mascot. If your city has special events during the season, tie these into your promos.

4. Offer Bonus Merchandise

When balancing price reduction and profit margin gets tricky, consider adding rewards instead.

Could you ask suppliers for samples to be used as "gift with purchase" items? Or pair your own smaller freebies with the full-price items—like s'more sticks with a tent purchase, socks with a pair of shoes, or a free dessert or spice packet with a cookbook purchase.

Print Local

Local purchasing has tangible benefits for shoppers and merchants: for every dollar spent shopping small, estimates show an average of 68 cents stays in that business's local community.

So, choose to shop and print locally and contact us for all your printing needs, including posters, mailers, business cards, and more. Give Us a Call at 516-561-1468 or Visit Our Website at:www.printcafeli.com

 

Personalized URLs in 

Direct Mail Marketing

Despite the more modern online alternatives in advertising today, direct mail will always be a classic and effective strategy for customer engagement.

Direct mail boasts a strong overall response rate of 3.7%, outperforming mobile ads (2%) and email and social media marketing (1%). 

A personalized URL (PURL) is a unique and helpful tool that can supercharge your direct mail marketing efforts! One of its standout features is the ability to digitally track the response rate for direct mail pieces, giving you data to ensure that your marketing dollars are being put to the best use possible. 

3 Benefits of Using PURLs for Direct Mail

1. Make Your Customers Feel Special 

Customers love to see marketing items that feel unique to them!

Each recipient's name can be incorporated into the PURL, giving you the perfect opportunity to add that touch of personalization to your direct mail. 

For example, John Doe's PURL might look like johndoe.trymail.com or john-doe.trymail.com. This will make your customers feel special and increase the likelihood of them following the link and engaging with your mail. 

2. Gather Valuable Data

With PURLs, you can precisely track responses to your mailings and gain deeper insights into your audience's preferences.

This information is essential because it means your team can ditch designs that don't yield response rates while improving upon the designs that demonstrate the most success. 

3. Integrate with Your Overall Marketing Strategy

PURLs can be integrated into your marketing strategy through various channels to enhance customer engagement and track responses effectively.

For example, incorporate PURLs as clickable links that lead to personalized landing pages in marketing emails or share them on social media. This not only enhances engagement but also allows you to collect valuable data to refine your marketing strategies.

Ready to supercharge your marketing campaigns with effective direct mail strategies and PURLs? Contact us today to explore how our printing services can transform your marketing efforts into success. Let's bring your vision to life! Call 516-561-1468

Direct Mail for Local Businesses: 

Unique Advantages and Strategies

Don’t leave attracting customers up to chance; be proactive with direct mail!

Employing the ability to reach scores of potential customers in specific regions, direct mail is an excellent vehicle for growing your customer base and publicizing your business creatively and methodically.

Direct Mail for Local Businesses: Unique Advantages and Strategies

Direct mail marketing is the method of sending out print materials to potential customers. Materials mailed could include postcards, flyers, or catalogs.

Scholars have found the earliest versions of direct mailings from ancient Egypt, around 1,000 B.C. Direct mail has come a long way since then, but it still has tremendous benefits for businesses today.

Direct Mail Can Physically Bring in Customers

A unique advantage to direct mail is that you can mail out a coupon or another promotional item to have customers physically visit your store and redeem it.

By bringing customers into your store, sales and business growth can grow exponentially. 

Get Customers Excited and Stand Out

Do you think young adults aren’t excited about direct mail? Think again!

Generation Z, or people born between 1997 - 2012, is 63% more excited about direct mail today than in 2022. Younger generations find direct mail more interesting and unique than digital marketing.

According to the World Advertising Research Center (WARC), this generation is particularly impressed with direct mail because they have grown up in such a digital age. 

By diversifying your marketing campaign to include direct mail, the generation bombarded with digital content will resonate more with your mailings and feel that the physical marketing stands out.

Direct Mail: A Tangible Approach in the Digital Age

Direct mail has strategic benefits for businesses, especially in today’s tech-savvy world.

Reap the rewards and return on investment by choosing direct mail to diversify your marketing campaign. Don’t just communicate with potential customers; encourage them to physically visit your business by mailing promotional materials such as coupons for customers to bring into your business.

Stand out from competitors’ marketing by sending physical mailers versus simply having digital marketing. Younger generations are hungry for printed materials they can touch and hang on to versus oversaturated online platforms.

Contact us today to begin your journey of creating creative and engaging direct mail! Call 516-561-1468

Mind-Driven Design: 5 Ways to Use 

Neuroscience for Impactful Posters

Science rules, not only in the natural world but also in the marketing world.

Neuroscience, the study of the brain and nervous system, and marketing go hand in hand, especially in today's competitive world. Utilizing science to gain consumer attention and interest can be incredibly impactful for your products and your business. 

Did you know that 90% of buying decisions are made in the unconscious mind? Now imagine harnessing neuroscience, or a better understanding of how the brain works, to create the most impactful customer posters possible. 

5 Ways to Use Neuroscience for Impactful Posters

Ensure your business's printed posters are seen in the most thoughtful, most efficient way by applying these neuroscience tips:

1) Location Matters

Where your posters are located matters.

Surroundings, or location, create 60% of the sensory sensations associated with a product, a Nestle research study indicated. Think critically and creatively about what is in your poster and where you decide to place it.

Be strategic and be connected with a positive and alluring location for your potential consumer.

2) Ditch Percentages

People don't listen to percentages; they listen to absolute numbers.

When communicating an offer on your poster, present the number like "You save $300" versus saying "You save 30%."  

Absolute numbers have a more substantial impact on customers and are retained better than percentages.

3) Keep It Simple

Using fancy or exotic fonts on your poster may be tempting, or your first idea to engage customers, but research has shown simple fonts are best.

According to experiments conducted by the University of Michigan, utilizing a straightforward font is the best way to convince or teach customers about your product.

Complex fonts help with memory recall, but simple fonts are best for sharing information.

4) Living Color 

The Harvard Business Review has found that nearly 90% of purchasing decisions are influenced by color.

Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow create feelings of excitement and energy. Conversely, cool colors like blue, green, and purple are linked with calmness and relaxation.

Color choices are critical in the mood and emotions you want your customers to feel and associate with your business or product. 

5) Engage FOMO

The Fear Of Missing Out, or FOMO, is a strong motivator for consumers that can be translated into marketing.

A study from University College London in 2021 revealed that urgent language increases sales. Words such as "Only a Few Left!" or "The Sale Ends Soon!" evoke strong FOMO responses that trigger customers to expedite their shopping or purchasing so they don't miss a good deal. 

Paint a marketing picture of urgency and saving money now, and sales have been found to increase due to the FOMO principle.

Work smarter, not harder, by utilizing neuroscience in your posters. The human brain is attracted to specific sensory elements; knowing these and how the brain interprets them can positively impact your print marketing campaigns. 

Head to our website to collaborate with our creative and professional print marketing experts on your engaging posters today! Go to:www.printcafeli.com

Writing the Perfect Thank 

You Note to Your Customers

A heartfelt thank you note can be the perfect way to show genuine appreciation to your customers, creating a strong and lasting bond.

But why stop there? Thank you cards allow you to seize the opportunity to extend warm wishes and heartfelt greetings to your valued customers anytime. It's a small yet powerful gesture that goes beyond words, expressing gratitude for their purchase, unwavering loyalty, and continuous support. 

9 Top Tips for Crafting the Ideal Thank You Note for Your Valued Customers

Writing a personalized note that resonates with your customers' experiences and showcases your sincere gratitude can leave an indelible impression on them.

These thoughtful acts strengthen relationships and foster long-term loyalty. So express your appreciation and encourage your customers with a personalized thank-you note this Thanksgiving!

1. Be Genuine and Sincere

Don't just write a generic thank you note; make it personal and heartfelt.

Speak from the heart and tell your customers how much they mean to you and your business.

2. Keep It Concise

Keep your note short and to the point.

Your customers will appreciate a sincere thank you without having to read through paragraphs of text.

3. Personalize, Personalize, Personalize

Include personal touches in your thank you notes, such as mentioning specific details about the purchase or their loyalty to your brand.

This shows that you have taken the time to appreciate them truly. 

4. Show Gratitude for Their Support

Whether it's a one-time purchase or continuous support, let your customers know how much you appreciate their business and how it has helped it grow.

5. Include a Call to Action

Encourage your customers to continue supporting your business by including a call to action in your thank you note.

This can be anything from visiting your website to leaving a review. 

6. Use Quality Stationery

Make sure to use good quality stationery when writing your thank you notes.

Contact us or visit our print shop for all your custom stationery needs. We take pride in providing products to ensure that your thank you notes express gratitude and exude elegance and thoughtfulness.

7. Be Timely

If you send your customers thank you notes after a specific purchase (vs. a holiday or occasion), do it promptly, preferably within a week after purchasing or receiving support.

This shows that you value your customers' time and business.

8. Get Creative

Don't be afraid to get creative with your thank-you notes!

You can include a small token of appreciation or a personalized message to make your customers feel special and valued.

9. Make It Meaningful

Lastly, ensure your thank you note is meaningful and specific to your customers.

This will make it more memorable and leave a lasting impression.
 
Don't underestimate the power of a simple thank you note in building and maintaining strong customer relationships. Take the time to craft a personalized and heartfelt message, and watch as your customers continue to show their support and loyalty.  
 
Need a little help getting started? We can help! Reach out to us on our website or give us a call for compelling thank you card ideas to help your customers feel appreciated this Holiday Season. Telephone:516-561-1468 or www.printcafeli.com

Interesting Envelopes: 

How to Use Them to 

Increase Your ROI

Envelopes allow your business to seize attention and effectively engage your audience from the moment they open the mailbox.
 
An envelope may seem like a small detail in your overall marketing strategy, but it can significantly impact your return on investment (ROI). 

Stand Out from the Competition and Increase Your ROI with Interesting Envelopes

Here are a few reasons why incorporating unique or eye-catching envelopes into your marketing strategy can benefit your business.

Increase Open Rates

When it comes to envelopes, incorporating captivating designs or compelling messaging can have a positive impact on your open rates.

People are likelier to open a visually appealing envelope, especially if it stands out among the rest of their mail.

Enhance Brand Awareness

By using envelopes with your company logo or incorporating your brand's colors and fonts, you are reinforcing your brand identity.

Even if the recipient doesn't open the envelope immediately, they will still see your branding and be reminded of your business.

Create a Memorable Impression

When you send out a marketing email or social media post, it can get lost in other messages.

But sending someone an attractive envelope is more likely to stick in their mind and make a lasting impression.

Let Interesting Envelopes Lead the Way to a Better ROI for Your Business

Here are some tips for incorporating interesting envelopes into your marketing strategy.

Design an Eye-Catching Envelope

The first step is to create a design that will capture attention and stand out from the rest of the mail.

You can use bright colors and unique shapes or add texture to make your envelope more visually appealing.

Personalize the Envelope

Believe it or not, personalized envelopes can significantly increase open rates.

Consider adding the recipient's name or a customized message to the design to make them feel special and more likely to open it.

Use Teaser Messaging

Teaser messaging is a clever way to entice recipients to open your envelope.

You can use short phrases or intriguing questions on the outside of the envelope to build curiosity and make people want to see what's inside. If you are including a discount code or sample, use the teaser to let them know. It will make them more likely to take action. 

Go Big

Did you know that oversized envelopes have the greatest household return on investment (37%) over other mediums like postcards and letter-sized envelopes (29%)? (Source: TheDMA.org) 

Maximize your marketing impact by utilizing oversized envelopes for your direct mail campaigns, driving a higher return on investment while capturing your audience's attention. 

Incorporating interesting envelopes into your marketing strategy can increase ROI and help your business stand out. 
 
Contact us today to get started on envelopes that are sure to get your business noticed! Call 516-561-1468

 

11 Tips for Making a Style 

Guide for Your Print Projects

Developing a comprehensive style guide for your print projects can be a game-changer, saving you precious time and avoiding unnecessary stress in the long haul. 

Applying consistency and professionalism across all designs streamlines the process for you and your team, effortlessly facilitating the creation of top-notch materials.

Create an Effective Style Guide for Your Print Projects with Our 11 Tips for Success!

Creating a style guide can feel overwhelming, particularly when unsure where to begin. 

Thankfully, with a few simple tips, you can craft an effective and efficient style guide to elevate your print projects to the next level.

1. Start with Your Brand Guidelines

Your brand guidelines are the foundation of your style guide.

They define your brand identity, including logos, colors, fonts, and messaging. Refer to your brand guidelines when creating your print project style guide.

2. Choose a Primary Font

Your primary font is the font that will be used for the majority of your text.

It plays a crucial role in shaping your brand's look and feel. It should be easy to read and carefully chosen to align with your brand's tone and personality, reflecting its unique essence and values. 

3. Select Secondary Fonts

Secondary fonts are used for headings, subheadings, and other design elements.

Choose fonts that pair well with your primary font and add visual interest to your designs. Avoid using too many different fonts, which can create a cluttered and unprofessional look.

4. Define Your Color Palette

Your color palette should include colors that reflect your brand's personality and create a unified look for all your print projects.

Specify each color's RGB, CMYK, and HEX values for accurate printing. Consider limiting the number of colors to maintain consistency.

5. Determine Your Layout

Decide on the overall layout of your print projects, including the placement of images, text, and other design elements.

Establishing a specific layout will help create a cohesive look throughout all your materials.

6. Include Branding Elements

Your style guide should include a section for branding elements such as logos, taglines, and slogans.

Specify their correct usage and placement in your designs. This will ensure that your brand's identity is always represented accurately.

7. Set Guidelines for Images and Graphics

Specify the type of images and graphics that can be used in your print projects, as well as their quality and size.

This will ensure that all visuals are on brand and maintain a professional look. 

8. Detail Typography Rules

Typography plays a significant role in design, so defining rules for font sizes, spacing, and kerning is essential.

Consistency in all your print materials is crucial for ensuring a cohesive and professional image.

9. Provide Examples

Visual examples are a great way to showcase how different elements should look in your designs.

Include examples of correct usage for fonts, colors, images, and layout to avoid confusion.

10. Define a Writing Style

If your print projects include written content, defining a writing style is crucial.

This should include spelling, grammar, and punctuation rules to ensure consistency in all your written materials. 

11. Specify Print Specifications

Specify the print specifications for your projects, such as paper type, weight, finish, and trim size.

This will help ensure your materials are printed correctly and maintain a professional look.

Don't let inconsistent and unprofessional print materials hold your brand back! Make your brand shine with a well-defined style guide.

Contact us today to start your next print marketing project! Call 516-561-1468