Bankers Advertising Articles

Its good to be Santa!

December 22, 2015

As we get closer to Christmas, it has me thinking about good ole Santa Claus. Jolly St. Nick has created one of the most famous and loved brands around the world. No matter your age or where you live, we all can’t wait for Santa to come. I think we can all learn a few things from the big guy, in my opinion he is a master marketer.Untitled design (1)

Santa has a solid brand, raving fans, is trustworthy and continues to grow his Christmas Empire! He isn’t just for children, every person likes to feel a little Christmas magic. Marketing Secrets from Santa Claus: Recognizable Brand Everyone knows who Santa is. People get excited when they think, hear or see Santa. They know what Santa stands for. Santa’s brand is recognizable all year long from his red suit, belly laugh, snow white beard, shiny black boots and his jolly “Ho, Ho, Ho!”. Santa’s message is known by all. What are you known for?

It’s important that your customers easily recognize you and your brand. Customers need to know what you do and who you are. Who doesn’t think of Santa and smile? He always surprises and delights us. Remember to find that “something extra” and leave your customers smiling.

Be Reliable –

Keep Promises Santa Claus is coming to town. Most of us wake up Christmas morning, year after year, to see what Santa has left for us. Every year, no matter what, Santa doesn’t let us down. It doesn’t matter where we are or what is happening in the world, Santa is there. Now is the time to ask ourselves – how reliable are we? Like expectant children on Christmas morning, our customers have high expectations of us and it’s our job to deliver. Remember – don’t do things halfway. Commit, be reliable and dedicate yourself or step away. Suggestion – make it a habit of asking your customers if they’ve ever been disappointed in your service. What areas can you improve upon, what services or products would they like you to offer?

Build Lists –

Santa’s making a list and checking it twice! He finds out who is naughty and nice. This reminds us that it’s always important to make a list of our clients. Do you have a naughty and nice list? Which clients are easy and fun to work with vs the clients that are difficult and never satisfied? By making a list and fully understanding each client, this will help you know which customers are the most profitable and should be focused on. Santa rewards for good behavior. Maybe you should too.

Sell More Than Your Product –

Santa sells more than just presents. He sells hope, cheer, happiness and the desire to be good. He inspires us all. In your branding efforts, you should be selling more than products. You have a whole bag of presents for your customers. Remember to let your customers know what’s in your big red bag. Most importantly….remember to sell you! Santa’s Team – Elves and 8 Reindeer Santa wouldn’t be Santa without his team. Do you think he would be able to read all those letters, be painstakingly reliable or jolly and bright if he didn’t have a team to help him with all his Christmas responsibilities? Of course not, that is what a great team behind you is all about. Bankers enjoys being part of your team.  No one ever built an empire alone…not even Santa. Be sure to use all of the branding resources we have available to help you prosper in the New Year. As we head into the New Year, think about Santa and learn from the best, implement the right tools and strategies and you will soon be creating your own world of magic.

Advertising,Holiday,Marketing,Seasonal — Molly Beavers @ 6:36 pm

Tradeshow Time | Increase your exposure at Tradeshows!

December 18, 2015

Trade shows and exhibitions provide businesses and organizations with a unique opportunity to see a large number of people, face-to-face in a short amount of time. It allows for personal interaction with their brand and to hear their story. Over the past few years, reports from the Center of Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) state attendees come to these events intending to buy. They found that 91% of visitors feel that they get more useful buying information by attending a show and that 75% buy as a result of the information gathered at the event.1 - Tradeshow quote image

Get started with a pre-show mailing. A recent study indicates that 76% of attendees plan their booth visits in advance. Don’t forget the promotional item as a gift for stopping by either. Booth traffic can increase up to 30% with a pre-show mailing offering a promotional item as a gift for stopping by.

Your staff at the show is the face of the company and will be the first impression of your brand. It’s important that your team has a brand conscious, professional look and an easily identifiable uniform.

Giveaways, traditionally a sample or a promotional item, are almost expected at trade shows. A relevant, unique and fun item can create a buzz around your customer’s booth.

After the event is where the money is made and, according to the CEIR, 80% of exhibitors do nothing. After investing in attending an event, it would be a tragedy to waste the effort and expense by not following up on the leads and contacts made. As your Bankers consultant to help you create a thank you package or mailer so you can “strike while the iron is hot”.

Remember, your consultant can help you with signage, displays, apparel (uniform), lanyards & badges, totes, giveaways and more. Browse ideas here.

Here’s to a successful Tradeshow Season!

Advertising,Branding,Marketing,Promotional Products,Trade show,Uncategorized — Molly Beavers @ 4:31 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

The Stylus Trend – the latest in Writing Instrument Technolog

August 8, 2014

Jewel Stylus Pen

Wasn’t Steve Job’s adamantly against the stylus?  Didn’t Apple design the iPhone and iPad to be so intuitive that children with finger-painting abilities could use them?  Well, yes, but it seems that the stylus is becoming more and more necessary as note-taking and drawing apps become popular and higher-level functionality is developing.

Those of us with petite, pointy fingers can hit the most minute icon on the iPhone.  But there are some of us who still prefer one degree of separation between us and the screen (chronic users of handcream, you know who you are).  There are many reasons to use a stylus and now that there are so many to choose from that are in combination with a pen, it’s a natural fit for the promotional products industry.

Pros of the stylus pen:

  • Use the touch screen keyboard more quickly
  • Draw on the touch screen with more accuracy
  • Project a more professional appearance when using a tablet
  • Use of stylus will keep screen cleaner
  • In general, it is easier to interact with some applications with a stylus than with a finger
  • Relatively inexpensive, yet high value perception

Consider  a Stylus Pen the next time you are promoting a technology brand, as an executive gift, employee appreciation gift, or at retail. We offer a variety of Stylus pens at several price points.

Branding,Marketing,Technology — Marie Young @ 5:55 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

2011 Fashion Forecast

February 17, 2011

In a world where target audiences are ever younger and always in the know, it’s important to stay on top of the hottest trends so you can deliver a promotional product that will be appreciated by your recipients. It’s New York Fashion Week and the newest avant-garde styles are hitting catwalks. But what’s popular with the everyday customer? If you’re looking at clothing to promote your brand – whether it’s a corporate gift, uniform or event giveaway – here are some of the hottest trends for the style-conscious.

VINTAGE: The vintage look has been all the rage for a few years now, and it’s not going anywhere. Customers love the soft feel of washed fabric and the burnout look of a shirt that’s been around for a while. Unique imprints will also be embraced by your audience – just take a look at popular online t-shirt vendors. Of course the perfect colors for these types of shirts and hoodies are heathered shades and washed-out colors… (more…)

Apparel,Marketing,Promotional Products — Marie Young @ 3:54 pm

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