Even Big Industries Limit Their Pen Promotions

by Shirley George Frazier on September 30, 2009

are pens part of your marketing arsenalWhile waiting in the doctor’s office for my mom’s blood work to be completed, she and I talked with the technician about how many handfuls of pens we received from a friend who works in a doctor’s office.

The technician information us that the “pen train” stopped at the beginning of the recession.

I wasn’t surprised, but then I asked myself:

If the pharmaceutical industry spends 35 percent of its budget on ads (an amount reported by a well-known marketing association), why aren’t a low-cost marketing tool such as pens still on their giveaway list?

I guess even a highly-compensated industry has its limitations.

What marketing product have you discontinued purchasing since the economic downturn, or have you found an alternative to what you previously distributed?

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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

Omu Obilor September 30, 2009 at 2:42 pm

I find that i have had to reduce my stock of polo shirts since the economic downturn. I haven’t succeeded in finding an alternative.

Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D. October 3, 2009 at 4:37 pm

For my upcoming book release celebration I had planned to give every attendee an imprinted tote bag. But with the economy as it is, I decided to collect as many free products from imprinting companies with my logo as possible. Then instead of everyone getting a gift, I’ll have a drawing for door prizes.

So far I have 5 good quality t-shirts, imprinted notecards and envelopes, a mousepad, and a cap. The winners will be delighted and so will I.

Shirley George Frazier October 3, 2009 at 9:43 pm

Hi Omu,

I bet that something will turn up as an alternative when you least expect it.

That’s what happens to me. Don’t look, and something will materialize.

Shirley George Frazier October 3, 2009 at 9:44 pm

Hi Flora,

You certainly made a wise choice in providing giveaways during your book release event.

Everyone who celebrates with you will be very pleased to pair your book with the mementos they’ll receive.

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