Direct mail marketing for restaurants with new technology and online printing appears to be easy and potentially rewarding. Marketing is a little art and a little science. Using an online marketing tool that only requires the click of a mouse does not ensure a successful campaign.
Bypassing experts who have been doing graphics, printing and mailings for years is a risk. Very careful consideration is needed before you click the "buy now" button when using an online printing company. There is a good chance what you see is not what you expect and it may not arrive when you expect it. This will leave you reordering and any potential cost savings can go out the window. Testing a service with a small print job is a must to eliminate human error while you learn the ropes.
I like using the online tools for guerrilla marketing campaigns. The goal is to create unique personal invitations to a specific group of people with a relevant message.
Example #1:
Support a high school PTA with fundraising by having a photo of the school and the group needing support along with the logo/business name. A recognizable local person, building, name or team increases interest because people in the community appreciate local events.
What photos are used will depend entirely on the community and the culture.
Example #2:
Local events related to holidays, celebrations, championships, etc. With photos which relate to LOCAL events people recognize, there is a better chance of connecting with the mailing.
Example #3
If you have birth dates of past guests, an online system will set up monthly reminders for you to mail them an invitation to celebrate their special day.
Creating collaborative mailings can lower cost and improve ROI.
Here is a list of direct mail and printing companies you can order from online:
You only need one or two but may find it necessary to test a few to find the best tool that suits your needs. Powerful or sophisticated services are wasted if you are not able to use their fancy widgets.
I have used several of these printing services for guerrilla marketing campaigns. I have no preference or recommendation other than to test them and include direct mail and printing as a part of your restaurant marketing plan.
Sincerely >
(send via your smart phone fast and easy)
Uprinting >
Digital Room >
PS Print >
Print Place >
Printing for Less >
Vista Print >
Overnight Prints >
48 Hour Print >
Post Card Mania >
iprint.com >
Prints Made Easy >
Greeting Cards >
Cartoon Link >
123Print >
Zazzle >
Postcards.com >
United States Postal Service >
Taradel >
After receiving a comment from Jim Fitzgerald I reviewed Taradel's services.
Taradel is one to check out.
4over4.com >
Free business cards, free review, free proof.
Online printing companies make it very easy for a business ownerto spend more money with a click. Stay focused on profitable marketing vs. what might feel good.
Several of the online printing companies offer more than just printing. They have full service graphics and mailing services to keep a restaurant marketing campaign fast and easy.
Ballantine Corp >
I confess appreciate family owned businesses where the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. Ballantine should be on your consideration list for direct mail campaigns.
Ballantine says: "You will benefit because we’re able to provide you with a wide range of direct marketing solutions and you’ll only have to know one phone number. But you will truly benefit because of the high level of production support we add to our services. Ultimately, we’re offering you peace of mind."
Here are optional services they provide:
They have a one stop shop and have been in business since 1966.
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Print and mail are NOT dead. In the new world of technology and media, it is important to break away from traditional thought processes. Create a synergy between print, mail and the Internet and gain an advantage.
