In today’s digital age, it’s easy to think that print marketing is a thing of the past. But the truth is, print marketing can still be an effective way to reach your target audience. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to do it! Here are some smart ideas for print marketing on a budget.

  1. Keep it Simple

The first rule of print marketing on a budget is to keep it simple. Don’t try to do too much with your design or messaging. Instead, focus on a single message or call-to-action that will resonate with your target audience. This will not only make your print materials easier and cheaper to produce, but it will also make them more effective.

  1. Use Templates

Another way to save money on print marketing is to use templates. Get your designer to create a reusable template that can be customized for many uses. This can save you time and money on design costs, while still allowing you to create professional-looking print materials.

  1. Choose the Right Paper

When it comes to print marketing, the paper you choose can make a big difference. While high-quality paper can add a touch of elegance to your materials, it can also be expensive. Instead, opt for a mid-range paper that is still of good quality but won’t break the bank. You can also save money by choosing a lighter weight paper, which will be cheaper to print and mail.

  1. Go Small

Size matters when it comes to print marketing. While larger print materials may seem more impressive, they can also be more expensive to produce and mail. Consider going with a smaller size for your print materials, such as postcards or flyers. This will not only save you money on printing and postage, but it will also make your materials more portable and easier to distribute.

  1. Print in Bulk

If you know you’ll need a large quantity of print materials, consider printing in bulk. Most printing companies offer discounts for larger orders, which can save you money in the long run. Just make sure to only print what you need, so you’re not wasting money on materials that will go unused.

  1. Utilize Free Shipping Offers

Many online printing companies offer free shipping for orders over a certain amount. Take advantage of these offers by planning your print materials in advance and ordering in bulk. This can save you money on both printing and shipping costs.

  1. Get Creative with Distribution

Once you’ve created your print materials, it’s time to get them into the hands of your target audience. But you don’t have to rely on traditional distribution methods, such as direct mail or door-to-door flyers. Get creative with your distribution by leaving materials in high-traffic areas, such as coffee shops or community centers. You can also partner with other businesses to distribute each other’s materials.

  1. Host a Print Swap

Another way to save money on print marketing is to host a print swap. This is a great way for businesses to exchange print materials with each other, without having to spend money on printing and design costs. Plus, it’s a great way to network with other businesses in your community.

  1. Focus on Branding

When it comes to print marketing, consistency is key. Make sure all of your print materials are consistent with your branding, including color scheme, typography, and messaging. This will not only make your materials more effective, but it will also help build brand recognition and loyalty.

  1. Measure Your Results

Finally, make sure to measure the results of your print marketing efforts. This will allow you to see what’s working and what’s not, so you can make adjustments as needed. Use tools such as unique URLs or promo codes to track the effectiveness of specific campaigns.

When you track your marketing efforts, you can focus your efforts on the methods that work best for your business. Not one print marketing tool works for every company, because of individual products, brand and customer differences. So stay sharp, and watch what works! It is the key to successful sales growth, particularly when you are just starting up.

Connect with the team at ITG to get your project started today!

About the Author

Tina getting a closer look with a magnifying glass

Tina Kempling, the Lean Green Team Leader at Imagine That with over 35 years of experience in the print industry, newspaper and magazine advertising.

As an industry-certified designer since 1991, Tina knows her stuff when it comes to marketing vision. But what sets her apart is her understanding of advertising and marketing in today’s digital and print market. She can help companies tap into the incredible marketing power in new and creative ways. Ready to take your marketing game to the next level? Give Tina a shout!