Items customized with your shop’s logo can be a very cost-effective marketing medium. When used properly, promotional products will reinforce your message and attract attention. As people use or display them, you’re getting additional exposure and residual advertising value.

Some tips for an effective use of your promotional marketing dollars:

• identify the right product that is consistent with your brand and quality message
• many people refer to promotional products as “trinkets and trash”
• don’t be tempted to offer “trash” to your customers. Even low cost items can be high quality.
• select products that your audience will appreciate and use
• tie the promotional products to a specific event, message or service
• have fun with your message!

How to use promotional products:

• free item with estimate (re-usable grocery bag or tote bag – big billboard that will be used often)
• free item for referral (one for your customer / one for the referral)
• dimensional mailing to prospects (tape rule or magnifier – “come in and see how we measure up”)
• free item with specific service or repeat service: (coffee mug – bring your mug back in; have a cup of coffee while you’re waiting and take 5% off your service invoice)
• give-away items for community outings or events (magnet/Sharpie/water bottles: fairs, picnics, golf outings)