Welcome to the first issue of Act III’s newsletter. Our goal is to share ideas – not push products. Each edition will be dedicated to a marketing strategy we hope you find applicable to your promotional needs. You will always have the option to unsubscribe, of course, but I encourage you to give it a try. Read on for this month’s idea…

We all have good customers, employees, vendors, and service providers who help our businesses thrive. Make sure they know how much you value them. Recognize their patronage and productivity with promotional products.

Why promotional products? Why not just send a nice card or gift certificate? You know the answer. Promotional products are your best choice because they do double duty – they convey the sentiment of a gift and they keep your name and message in front of recipients day after day.

There’s a lot to choose from. The key is to pick an item with real value and staying power. Forget run-of-the-mill. Don’t be afraid to spend a little more. After all, these people help your business stay profitable. Consider how much revenue you’d lose if they went somewhere else, or how much they’re saving you by providing good service at a reasonable price. Isn’t it worth it to show your appreciation?

Here are a few suggestions:

• Custom-labeled wine, salsa, hot sauce, etc.
• A brand-name wristwatch (Skagen, Swiss Army) with your logo and message (“Top Performer” or “Vendor Partner”) on the face
• A bobble-head figure of your top salesperson, vendor, or customer (it may be pricey, but balance that against how much revenue this person produces for you)
• A hands-free cell phone headset in an imprinted case
• A pack of fine quality steaks, a ham, turkey or special dessert
• An inscribed coffee-table book featuring a favorite travel destination, hobby, or other area of interest

The most important thing is to choose something most people don’t already have or wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves. Need more ideas? Just call us.

I hope you find this first newsletter worthwhile. Feel free to pass along your feedback; your input is appreciated. And if you’d like to talk about upcoming promotional activities or events – including holiday gift-giving – just send me an e-mail or call me at 212-868-1813.