We've all seen them: the tourism postcard with its panoramic view or odd park animal; the greeting, "Wish you were here," or "Happy Holidays;" and the advertising "New Merchandise," "Special Event," or "Discount with this card," postcard. Often distributed by mail, the advertising postcard is most often used in conjunction with other advertising such as radio, newspapers, magazines, letters, catalogs, or flyers. An advertising postcard sent via mail is delivered directly to the recipient. Organizations or businesses may target their advertisements by sending advertising postcards to current, prospective and/or new customers. Direct mail advertising postcards have the advantage of putting the message in the hands of the recipient without the barrier of an envelope. Goes-Postal postcards can be used for direct mailing. Examples of traditional businesses that use direct mail advertising postcards are:
Free cards, or free-to-take postcards, are designed and used to raise awareness of a company, service or cause. They use design to catch the eye and convenience of place to deliver the message to the consumer. Community-distributed advertising postcards are usually found in locations near their advertiser, suited to the target audience. Service businesses, restaurants, malls, schools, tourist locations, and other places frequented by the target audience are candidates. The cards are free to take. They typically contain subtle advertising messages. Artful, scenic, or clever images and quality card stock entice people to pick them up, save and show, or post them to a friend asking "Have you seen this?" The postcards help to bring attention to the product or service as well as to the business that hosts distribution. People often intentionally seek out card locations. Goes-Postal cards are designed for distribution. Cards in our community displays are changed on a regular basis so there is a continuing supply of new material for people to discover, share, and enjoy. |
