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The internet has opened up countless opportunities for businesses to sell online. However, in this digital age, the power of offline marketing is often overlooked.
While having an online store is essential for any ecommerce business today, incorporating offline marketing strategies can significantly boost your brand awareness, website traffic, conversions and revenue.
Television advertising accounts for the biggest share at 12%, followed by events and experiences (11%), print advertising (9%), and out-of-home advertising (6%). Interestingly, online channels only make up 28% on average.
Research also indicates that combining online and offline drives better results - omnichannel customers spend 15% more compared to single-channel customers. With innovating offline formats like digital OOH and businesses focusing on localized campaigns, the relevance of offline marketing continues to hold strong even amidst the digital revolution.
Its unique ability to build trust and connect with audiences on the ground makes offline integral for UK brands looking to boost their marketing ROI. This comprehensive guide will provide 15 practical offline marketing ideas to help ecommerce businesses promote their brand and drive sales.
Print advertising through newspapers, magazines and brochures can be an impactful offline marketing channel, especially for targeting local audiences.
Run ads in magazines and niche publications relevant to your industry. For instance, an outdoor gear brand can advertise in travel or adventure magazines.
Local newspaper ads are cost-effective and great for location-based targeting. Use special offers to drive in-store sales.
Design creative brochures with product visuals, brand story and contact details and distribute them where your target audience is present.
Radio provides audio-based storytelling that’s ideal for imaginative brands.
Partner with local radio stations to run 30 or 60 second radio spots during peak listening times.
Sponsor related podcasts and ask hosts to read out a pre-recorded ad script promoting your ecommerce store or products.
Promote short-term seasonal offers on radio to drive traffic during holidays or events.
Out-of-home (OOH) advertising on billboards, posters and transit displays are seen by consumers when they are on the move.
Strategically place billboards on highways and busy intersections frequented by your target shoppers.
Brand transit stops and stations near business districts to reinforce your brand.
Put up eye-catching posters and signages at malls, local stores, cafes etc.
TV ads deliver both audio and visual impact ideal for showcasing your brand story and products more effectively.
Produce creative and quirky 15 or 30 second TVC spots for placement during popular shows, news hours etc.
Geo-target your ads to relevant regions and channels your customers are likely to watch.
Sponsor TV shows popular among your target group to subtly promote your brand.
With direct mail you can get your brand message and offers directly in the hands of potential customers.
Send catalogs, postcards or special discount flyers by mail to existing customers and local prospects.
Use personalized mailers by name for more relevance. Handwritten notes can further boost response rates.
Partner with other brands to be included in joint mailers, coupon books etc. that reach wider audiences.
Encourage repeat in-store purchases through a well designed loyalty program.
Offer points, stamps or rewards for every purchase that can be redeemed on future transactions.
Send members exclusive coupons, offers and personalized communication.
Partner with other local businesses to allow points earned from different stores to be pooled.
Experiential marketing through live events allows customers to engage with your brand in person.
Set up interactive brand experience zones at relevant trade shows, shopping malls, marathons etc.
Organize pop-up events in key locations and offer exclusive merchandise or deals.
Host in-store events like new product previews, anniversaries, meetups etc. to drive footfall.
Product sampling gets potential customers to experience your products first-hand.
Distribute free samples at trade shows, malls, markets, airports etc. along with special discount flyers.
Loan products like gadgets and appliances to influencers and media houses for reviews and publicity.
Hold in-store sampling events for customers to try new products.
Make your physical store presence prominently visible in the local area.
Invest in bold, striking and well-lit store signage that is visible from a distance.
Regularly update in-store displays and window dressing to draw attention.
Greet customers entering the store with flyers that provide store details, latest offers etc.
Build local community connections through sponsorships and in-kind donations.
Listing in online and print directories improves discoverability and local SEO.
Ensure correct business information on Google My Business, Facebook Local, Yelp and other major directories.
Update listings in key local print directories like Yellow Pages.
Publish your store flyers and catalogs on online listing aggregators.
Local business networking events offer opportunities to generate leads and sales.
Set up booths and share samples at local chamber of commerce events and city festivals.
Sponsor and attend industry association meetings to build connections.
Represent your business at conferences and B2B trade shows. Collect lead information for future sales outreach.
Encourage existing satisfied customers to refer their family and friends.
Reward customers for every successful new referral with store credits or discounts.
Make it easy for them to share referral links online via email and social media.
Send thank you gifts to top referrers to further boost engagement.
Distributed branded merchandise results in free organic impressions.
Give away customized pens, bags, t-shirts, umbrellas etc. with contact information at local events and shops.
Include stickers, magnets or other creative items in each online order.
Offer merch to influencers to wear and share on social media.
Form strategic win-win partnerships and sponsorships.
Sponsor a local sports team and set up a branded booth at their events.
Partner with complementary businesses to co-host events, cross-promote etc.
Sponsor community events like marathons where you can interact with consumers.
Use unconventional guerrilla tactics to create buzz and awareness.
Brand sidewalks, stairs and public areas around your store with chalk art or decals.
Hire performers to put up impromptu shows or hand out samples at public spaces.
Wrap vehicles with branded messages and park them at strategic locations.
Offline marketing provides invaluable opportunities for ecommerce businesses to drive brand awareness, website traffic and sales through real-world consumer interactions. While digital marketing is essential, smartly incorporating select offline tactics as covered in this guide can significantly boost marketing success.
At SHOPLINE, our unified commerce solutions help you master both online and offline selling. To start selling smarter today, sign up for a free 14-day trial and unlock the potential of modern commerce.
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