Bankers Advertising Articles

3 Secrets to a Successful Gifting Season

November 14, 2015

Each year you set out to find a unique gift for your top customers and employees.IMG_0555 Each year you may experience a little anxiety about said unique gift.  You want to be “different.” You want to stand out. You want to be noticed. And most of all, you want to make your recipient feel appreciated without breaking the bank.

It’s easy to overthink the “what” in gift giving. Instead, think about it in terms of “how.” Consider these important factors, and you’re sure to be a gifting star this season:

Don’t give a gift. Give a bundle!

With a per gift budget in mind, it’s common to begin looking for the one item that fits in the budget. But, what if you select a few smaller items bundled together? Bundling several items together increases the perceived value.

What’s better? With multiple branded items in a gift package, K5012you’ll receive higher brand exposure. By creating a kit or package of products, the recipients are left with many brand impressions vs. just one. As products are used, they may be separated from the bundle. That means your brand is located in multiple places around the home and/or office.

Packaging is everything.

The first impression can set the tone of receiving the gift and emotional connection. Much of the attention in choosing gifts is given to the gift itself, but the presentation of the gift is a value-added opportunity that can’t be ignored.

Interestingly, a lot of psychological research has been done in why we wrap gifts. The question psychologists have asked themselves is whether people prefer to receive a gift if it is wrapped or not. The research suggests that people have a more positive attitude towards a gift they are about to receive if it has been wrapped.

Packaging options are an inexpensive way to increase the perceived value of a gift by leaps and bounds. Gift bags, custom ribbon and gift boxes will enhance the selected item and maximize the impression it leaves.

Distribution is key.

Distributing gifts is an element of planning that is all too often forgotten about, but its actually a very important part of the gift receiving experience.

Hand-delivering some of the branded gifts is an incredibly personal and authentic way to express your appreciation. Your dedication to this delivery method is super impressive and meaningful to your recipient. They won’t ever forget it, that’s for sure.

On the other hand, sometimes mailing a gift is more feasible. There are pros and cons to both. If you decide to mail or ship your gift, a hand-written personal note goes a long way. In a world of emails, texts, Facebook and snapchatting, a hand-written note intended specifically for the recipient makes them feel uber special… even if it’s just a few kind words of thanks.

Remember… you’re not in this alone. Rely on your experts at Bankers Advertising to help you plan out the perfect holiday gift experience!

Advertising,Branding,Holiday,Promotional Products,Seasonal — Marie Young @ 9:45 pm

Promotional Products: A Vital Part of your Marketing Mix

May 19, 2015

Did you know that promotional products fit in seamlessly with your brand and target markets? They’re an incredibly versatile marketing medium – not to mention useful and wanted. They work as a stand-alone marketing piece, or perfectly in conjunction with campaigns including social media and even TV ads.Marketing Mix

They’re also effective for dealer/distribution programs such as company stores and co-op programs in which they build loyalty with current customers or create new accounts. Other uses include employee incentive programs, orientation programs, tradeshow booth traffic, new product introduction and marketing research.

Adding a promotional product to the media mix generated favorable attitudes toward a print ad in all cases. The use of a promotional product as the advertising medium alone achieved maximum impact, up to 69% increasing brand interest and 84% in creating a good impression of the brand.

Recipients of promotional products have a significantly positive opinion of a business through:

  • Increase in positive overall image
  • More positive perception of the business
  • Higher likelihood of recommending the business
  • Higher likelihood of patronizing the business

Source: PPAI Study: Promotional Products Impact On Brand/Company ImaStrong Influencersge Conducted by Georgia Southern University

From lip balm to a wireless mouse to paper airplanes, promotional products come in all shapes, sizes & colors. In many cases, it’s even possible to obtain custom items that aren’t usually found in promotional product catalogs. If you can see it and touch it, it’s most likely available as a promotional product. This allows you to customize a marketing campaign so that it is more relevant to a specific demographic.

For more information and research on the sheer POWER of this marketing medium, take a look at www.promotionalproductswork.org.

Search product options here.

Need a consultant? Contact us.

 

Promo Facts

Advertising,Marketing,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 3:22 pm

Understanding the science behind color

May 30, 2014

When it comes to identifying your brand, what is the first thing your customers will think of? It’s most likely your logo.

Yes, it’s important to focus on the message delivered by your logo, but you’d be surprised how big of an impact color has on a message!

Neuroscientist Bevil Conway, who has focused his recent research almost entirely on the neural machinery behind color, believes the science behind color processing to be very powerful and completely underexploited.

“Knowing that humans might … be hardwired for certain hues could be a gateway into understanding the neural properties of emotion,” he told Co.Design earlier this month.

The implications of color’s effect on people’s emotions are far reaching, and understanding your customers’ connections to certain colors could increase the effectiveness of your company’s branding methods.

According to research complied by web design and marketing company WebPageFX, people make a subconscious judgment about a product in less than 90 seconds of viewing, and a majority of these people base that assessment on color alone. In fact, almost 85% of consumers cite color as the primary reason they buy a particular product, and 80% of people believe color increases brand recognition.

Bankers Advertising is able to offer more and more promotional product and imprinting options to showcase your colorful brand. Browse Products here. Overwhelmed with the colorful options? Our consultants would love to help. Contact us.

Source: www.fastcompany.com

Advertising,Branding,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 6:21 pm

5 Promotional Products You Should Consider for Your Business:

April 24, 2014

Old man winter has finally taken a hike, and soon flowers and green grass will put your customers in the mood to purchase from your business! It’s important to be present in their minds when they’re ready to get out and about to shop, shop, shop.

In that spirit, let’s do a quick review of the values and benefits of some products that you should consider using to promote your business. The average US household has 10 branded products. That means you will want your brand in these places:

1. Kitchen

2. Office/Desk Area

3. Bedroom

Viral, mobile, highly targeted and inexpensive, promotional products are the only advertising medium capable of engaging all five senses. Adding a message to a tangible product turns an ordinary message into a marketing experience the audience can see, touch, hear, smell and even taste. Consider using these products to build your brand identity during this spring and summer:

1. Calendars:

The only kind of advertising that customers ask for, 84% say they refer to their imprinted calendar multiple times each day. In general, calendars have a cost per impression of less than ½ of a cent!

2. Apparel:

Next to calendars the most visible form of advertising, 43% of US consumers own at least one imprinted apparel item. Your team members should be parading around your brand! Better yet…? Get your customers to be your walking billboard by giving them a quality branded apparel item.

3. Writing Instruments:

This category has the widest price range of products from just cents to thousands of dollars. Over 50% of all US households have at least one branded writing instrument. The average pen has 7 owners, and the fastest growing style is any pen with a stylus because they’re great for smart phones. Put your brand on a highly-used item, and give yourself double the exposure by using a stylus pen!

4. Housewares:

82% of US homes have at least one imprinted promotional item in the kitchen, and 52% of adults spend an average of 3 hours per day in the kitchen. The kitchen is currently the most desirable area of the house in which to place a promotional item. It’s a no-brainer.

5. Drinkware:

14% of US consumers own and use a piece of logoed drinkware on a daily basis. Plastic BPA free drink bottles and drink bottles with a flip up straw feature are currently the fastest growing segment of the drinkware market. Put your brand on something that will not only be used in the home, but also the gym, office, car, sporting events, and more

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, our expert promotional consultants can help you narrow your selections based on your specified theme, target audience and budget. You can also have fun browsing for products by category on our search tool. Check it out, and start building your brand today!

Advertising,Apparel,Custom Calendars,Customer Appreciation,Economy,Marketing,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 3:59 pm

Bankers Advertising Company Spreads Awareness of Advertising Medium

April 21, 2014

Promotional Products Work Week

Bankers Advertising Company, www.bankersadvertising.com, a promotional products distributor, joins thousands of promotional products businesses around the country hosting special events, and partnering with local businesses, to celebrate Promotional Products Work! Week, sponsored by Promotional Products Association International.

Promotional Products Work! Week is a celebration by the promotional products industry to raise awareness about promotional products as an advertising medium and the benefits of working with highly qualified promotional products professionals to develop and produce innovative advertising and branding strategies.

Bankers Advertising Company is joining forces with the Promotional Products Association International to heighten awareness of the effectiveness of this advertising medium.

  • 88% of people recall the advertiser on promotional products
  • 62% recall the message
  • 85% did business with the advertiser after receiving a promotional product
  • 83% of people like promotional products
  • 81% keep them because they are useful
  • 8 out of 10 people owns 1 to 10 promotional products
  • 53% use promotional products once a week or more
  • 47% keep promotional products for more than a year
  • 88% of people recall the advertiser on promotional products
  • 62% recall the message
  • 85% did business with the advertiser after receiving a promotional product
  • 83% of people like promotional products
  • 81% keep them because they are useful
  • 8 out of 10 people owns 1 to 10 promotional products
  • 53% use promotional products once a week or more
  • 47% keep promotional products for more than a year

Established in 1896, Bankers is one of the oldest and largest promotional products distributors. Bankers specializes in providing promotional marketing, tradeshow promotions, sales meeting supplies and communication tools, business gifts, recognition programs and advertising calendars. In addition, Bankers provides company store and fulfillment programs. For more information about Bankers, call (319) 354-1020(319) 354-1020 or visit www.bankersadvertising.com.

Advertising,Marketing,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 4:13 pm

Promote with Parades this Independence Day

May 23, 2011


By Erica Kelley-Gogel, CAS

The nation’s birthday is right around the corner – how will your business celebrate? The Fourth of July is a great time to hand out promotional products for events like parades. Communities often sponsor Independence Day parades and many area businesses get in on the action. No organization is left out – common participants include real estate agents, insurance bureaus, fire departments, chiropractors, dentists and locally owned restaurants and small businesses. What about your business? Parades are a great way to get the word out about your company.

A small nearby town hosts a great parade that lasts around an hour, with different companies walking, tossing out can coolers, flying disks and magnets along with many, many pounds of candy for the kids. Though candy is a favorite to toss from floats, it doesn’t leave a lasting impression or a reminder of the businesses that participated in the parade. After all, you’re looking for new business and new clients, so you want everyone to remember your name! Consider the alternatives listed below, and if you need help, contact us and we’ll connect you with one of our expert promotional product consultants.

Include your logo and an American flag! We have all these great products with patriotic themes, from some of our top lines:

  • Plastic or nonwoven bags – recipients will love them, they’re great for holding all the products they’ll accumulate during the parade.
  • Decals and magnets – a magnet on your customer’s refrigerator will be seen every day. We make them here at Bankers Advertising!
  • Jar opener – kitchen items are always useful and popular.
  • Sunscreen – not only will it show your company’s regard for proper health care, but it’s a reminder of your brand whenever they apply.
  • Emery boards – great choice, especially for salons and beauty supply stores.
  • Misting fan – ideal, especially for those sitting in the hot sun watching a parade. You know it’ll be appreciated!
  • Flying disks – keep them entertained and spread the word about your company all summer long.
  • Pens – a classic promotional product. Get them in red and blue or choose your company colors.
  • Lip balm – also with SPF, perfect for summertime. You can even do a full-color process imprint.
  • Can coolers – who doesn’t love these? Drinks stay colder longer and no perspiration on the table.
  • Key tag – be All American with a flag key tag.

Now is the time to find out when your area is hosting parades. If you’re involved in more than one, consider cohesive product ideas and designs for even better branding. Again, if you need products, don’t hesitate to contact Bankers Advertising Company. We’re happy to help with custom ideas in a price range you’re comfortable with. Happy 4th of July!

Advertising,Bags,Custom Calendars,Customer Appreciation,Holiday,Marketing,Seasonal — Marie Young @ 3:00 pm

Why Social Media is Important for Your Business

April 15, 2011

Chances are you’ve heard the buzz about social media. While you probably know by now that being active online is important to business success, you may still be hesitant or unsure where to begin.

So what exactly does a social medium allow you to do? What are the benefits?

1. Raise awareness. There’s nothing better than free publicity, and these platforms give you the opportunity to shout about your services from the rooftops.

2. Add legitimacy. It’s obvious that your company is alive and well when you have online presence and an active Twitter feed. People will be more likely to buy from a thriving business, especially when they know customer service is readily available.

3. Customer service. Speaking of which … people are increasingly turning to the Internet to solve problems. It’s easy to shoot an e-mail, compose a Tweet or write a Facebook post to address an issue and quickly find a fix. Just be sure – as the person providing the customer service – to be as honest, kind and helpful as possible.

4. Research. Find out what other people are saying about you by utilizing the “search” functions on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Or search for information on promotional products, local news or anything that interests you or pertains to your brand.

5. Build relationships. People are more likely to buy from their friends. We trust our friends, so why wouldn’t we turn to them if they offer a service we need? Social media allow you to create bonds with people through the power of the Internet. Show your new buddies your expertise and don’t forget to have a good time! Post something funny on Facebook and mix it up with posts about the latest cool products or services you have available.

6. Coupons and discount offers. Then, offer discounts to new friends. People expect rewards for “following” you or being your “fan.” Something like 10% off through next week – for Facebook fans only!! will grab attention and show fans you appreciate them. You might spend a little money, but you’ll earn devoted customers.

7. Reputation management. If you don’t make a name for yourself online, someone else will. And it might not be what you want to hear.

These are only a few of the many reasons it’s important to get involved in social media. A 2011 Social Media Marketing Industry Report survey found that 90% of professional marketers believe social media is important to achieving business success. You’ll discover opportunities online if you’re willing to devote a little time and energy to maintaining your brand image.

Advertising,Customer Appreciation,Facebook,Marketing,Promotional Products,Social Media,Twitter — Marie Young @ 6:14 pm

Go Green for Earth Day

March 22, 2011

Earth Day is the name used for two different observances, both held worldwide annually. While some celebrate Earth Day around the time of the vernal equinox on March 20, others observe the occasion on April 22 each year. Earth Day aims to inspire awareness of and appreciation for the earth’s environment. It is currently observed in more than 140 countries.

Typical Earth Day events include planting trees, picking up roadside trash, conducting various programs for recycling and, of course, working to correct excess trash output, energy usage, water waste and fuel intake. Others make Earth Day a month long celebration to stress the importance of caring for our environment. After all, it’s important to protect our planet not only for our sake, but for the benefit of future generations.

Earth Day is a great time to promote your company’s greener side. Create a positive impression with customers by using environmentally friendly promotional products to market your business! These products are also great to use in schools. Here at Bankers we have tons of great sources to fulfill your needs from our Advantage, Key & Recommended vendors.

Quickpoint has a variety of eco-friendly items that would be perfect to celebrate this holiday. First off, all their Bio Ad items are made out of biodegradable plastic. However, the biodegrading process doesn’t begin until the product reaches the landfill. Under normal use, these products will last a lifetime.

Nature Ad products from Quickpoint are made of corn plastic, a more environmentally friendly option than regular plastic, which is generally manufactured utilizing petroleum-based material. Not only are they biodegradable, but they’re an American product, too! Agriculture clients will love that these corn products benefit the U.S. farm economy.

Humphrey offers products made from post-industrial recycled material. These fun items will vary in color due to their material, but multiple-color imprints are available. The #44 Recycled All Pro Yoyos, #99 Recycled Flyers and #147 Recycled Pail have all been child-safety tested and are made in the USA.

Some companies are jumping at the opportunity to create products using recycled water bottles. Ariel has a variety of recycled P.E.T. bags that are made from 85% post-consumer water bottles, recycled to create a sustainable product that is safe for the environment. Prime Line has eco-friendly biodegradable plastic water bottles. Spector & Co. even has a new aqua pen that is made from recycled bottles.

If you haven’t considered promoting your company around Earth Day, think about the unique opportunities you’ll have to market your brand and stay top of mind with customers.

Advertising,Custom Calendars,Eco-friendly,Economy,Marketing,Promotional Products,Seasonal — Marie Young @ 2:08 pm

How To Make Customers Love You

January 19, 2011

Our country goes gaga for all things gooey and sentimental right around February 14. Love is in the air and not only for couples – it’s the perfect time to tell your clients how much you love them! Don’t worry about being cheesy or overly romantic, everyone is wearing rose colored glasses when this sweet holiday rolls around and customers will be so happy to hear from you.

What promotional product is best for Valentine’s Day? There are tons of options – teddy bears, heart-shaped key chains, customizable greeting cards and, of course, a huge variety of assorted candy.

(more…)

Advertising,Custom Calendars,Marketing,Promotional Products,Seasonal — Marie Young @ 10:28 pm

What’s a QR Code?

December 14, 2010

A QR Code is essentially a bar code, and it’s becoming more and more prevalent in advertising and marketing campaigns.

It’s a black and white square with a special construct that allows it to store data like URLs or text. Short for “Quick Response,” QR codes can be scanned by a cell phone, which immediately accesses the information stored inside. QR scanners, mobile phones with cameras and smartphones are all capable of reading the codes, which can load a text, URL or other data.

(more…)

Advertising,Marketing,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 9:08 pm

« Newer Posts — Older Posts »