Are Catalogs Still Necessary?
Penny asks:
“I know that people want to feel and touch a catalog, but making one for my gift basket business is a huge expense. Do I really need a catalog?”
It’s true that customers still want to receive a catalog by mail or walk away from your display with something concrete in hand. This marketing tool validates your business in their minds over a competitor that does not have such materials. It also confirms to them that you are in business for the long run.
When you decided to start a business, your business plan is where you mapped out the marketing strategy. What marketing literature did you choose to create for face-to-face and mail distribution? Look at your plan to refresh your mind on what methods you selected.
If catalogs were not part of the initial plan, perhaps postcards and flyers are on the list. They serve as catalogs in a condensed format, as postcards and flyers include images and text similar to a multi-page catalog.
Here’s a page that shows you options for creating a catalog whether now or in the future.
It’s okay not to have a full-blown catalog similar to what major retailers distribute as part of their marketing campaign. Pick an alternative, but be sure to pick something to print and distribute so prospects and customers remember you.
