Multi Media Promotions "Bringing Images and Ideas Together"
      Issue 18 • August 2007  
         
  Simple… Thoughtful… Clever…

Beth M.Levine, OwnerThe three words in the headline above say it all about this month’s newsletter.

We share the story of a simple promotional product that, properly designed and manufactured, can be a success with its recipients.

You’ll learn about ways to show your concern for the environment while promoting your organization at the same time. (This is a subject we’re going to talk about again in the coming months – it’s that hot of a topic.)

We close with some clever ideas for making sure that your target audience wears the corporate apparel you give them.

As always, enjoy… and please share your feedback.

signature
Beth M. Levine
516-935-0553
info@mmpromos.com

P.S. If you missed last month’s newsletter, click here for back issues!

 
         
   
       
 

Sophisticated Audience Enjoys “Simple” Gift

Oftentimes buyers dismiss a mug as an appropriate promotional gift for their target audience. “Everyone has them,” we’re told. True, but it’s with good reason. Everyone uses them!

We knew that even an audience as sophisticated as the attendees of the annual Stony Brook Southampton Writers Conference, held July 18-29, would appreciate a mug as a keepsake of the event if it were of the highest caliber. The conference, held annually, offers workshops, lectures, readings and small-group discussions for both new and established writers, writing teachers, and editors.

Now back to the gift for attendees! The mug featured 4-color process art on two sides and holds 15 oz of liquid. We had to pay close attention to the artwork (check it out – not your typical artwork) to ensure the imprinting was sharp and a true depiction of the event logo.

The moral of this tale? Don’t underestimate the power of the mug! (But no worries… if a mug, no matter how special, isn’t right for your event or target audience, we won’t suggest it.)

To talk about your next event and a suitable gift for your target audience, call us at 516-935-0553 or send us an e-mail.

 
         
   
       
 

Put Your “Greenest” Foot Forward

Ever since global warming took center stage after the debut of Al Gore’s movie An Inconvenient Truth, the public’s concern with the environment has increased and consumers are more apt than ever to choose products or companies that are “green.”

Whatever someone believes regarding global warming, there’s no arguing that it makes good business sense to put an environmental foot forward in today’s marketplace. Here are a few promotional ideas to help:

If you plan a direct mail campaign, for example, be sure to choose recycled-paper envelopes and stationery. Imprint collateral with the proper recycling logo whenever appropriate. Choose lumpy mail enclosures that support the environment such as earth-friendly bookmarks that have seeds imbedded in them. The bottom of the bookmark can be planted and the top can serve as a great reminder to your recipients of corporate responsibility.

Think of quarterly environmental messages that you can share with your employees and clients. For example, a “Mighty Drip” water drop-shaped jar opener can be tied to a promotional concept of “refreshing” ideas or products, while also providing an environmental message of water conservation. Or, tree-shaped magnets can remind recipients of your brand and phone number, while conveying a message that your business is “rooted” in providing the best service available.

Finally, look for ways to help customers go green. Retailers can host incentive programs such as “bring your own bag” to receive a 10% discount on products. You could even offer imprinted reusable shopping totes with your logo for a walking billboard effect. Shop-owners, car dealers or professional-services offices can keep “Clean & Green” activity coloring books on hand to occupy and educate children while their parents conduct business.

There are many ways to put your greenest foot forward. Send us an e-mail or call us at 516-935-0553 if you’d like to explore the countless ways to take advantage of pink promotions!

 
         
   
       
 

Clever Copy for Apparel

According to a recent study, Americans wear t-shirts on average 5 out of 7 days of the week and typically own 20 from which to choose. And while styling and fit influence choice, research has shown that the right logo and message can also be persuasive.

Here are a few tips to generate clever copy for your next promotional apparel campaign:

Use styling to spur creativity. A form-fitting t-shirt makes the perfect canvas for a product/service to claim it’s the “Right Fit for Success.”

Let color be your cue. An accountant, for example, might use a black t-shirt with the imprinted slogan, “Back in Black” and a corporate logo. An accompanying note card could explain how this firm keeps clients financially healthy and in the black.

Tap into the senses. A cashmere tee or sweater connotes softness and luxury. Use language about comfort, care and prestige to make your point. Denim suggests rugged endurance, e.g., “Traditional Ideals, Durable Products.”

Think location. Chest- and back-position graphics make the perfect platform to tout, “Front-line Service…” and then, from behind, “Back-end Solutions.” This works well for any behind-the-scenes support company.

Go subtle. Companies with highly stylized logos or symbols may want to simply use that imagery as “jewelry” on a garment. One firm used its symbol in the center of a women’s fitted tee, almost as if it were a pendent. The company name was then imprinted on the left-side, bottom hem.

Also keep in mind you can highlight function, too. For example, imprint sandals with a sole reading, “In Step with Success” or proclaim on a muscle shirt, “Powered to Fuel Business.”

There are as many ways to customize apparel as there are individual companies and brands. Call us at 516-935-0553 or send us an e-mail for ways to help your corporate uniform or giveaway make its way to the front of the closet!

 
         
   
         
 

I hope our newsletter inspires you to take a fresh look at your promotional marketing activities. Please call me at 516-935-0553 or send us an e-mail to talk about your marketing challenges and needs. We would love to use our brainstorming power to help your organization!

 
         
PO Box 895 • Plainview, NY 11803 Phone: 516-935-0553 • Fax: 516-935-3748 info@mmpromos.com • www.mmpromos.com PO Box 895 • Plainview, NY 11803 Phone: 516-935-0553 • Fax: 516-935-3748 info@mmpromos.com • www.mmpromos.com Women's Business Enterprise
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