Case Study: What Pizza Can Teach Us About Branding

How Domino’s Reinvented Itself Using a Underused Tactic

The history: According to the Domino’s website, the Monaghan brothers bought “DomiNick’s” in 1960 and renamed it Domino’s in 1965. The company opened its 200th store in 1978 and its 5000th store in 1989. Its website launched in 1996, and by 2000, it domino's logohad over 6500 outlets spread across the globe. It celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2010. Today, Domino’s has over 9000 outlets across 60 countries.

The challenge: Domino’s faced a classic “perception vs. reality” issue. Domino’s was often the butt of jokes, eliciting “tastes like cardboard” punch lines. Even its convenient “delivered in 30 minutes or less” promise didn’t help much. A consumer taste survey in 2009 had Domino’s coming in dead last, tied with Chuck E. Cheese. As a result, Domino’s announced its plan to reinvent itself in late 2009, starting with its pizza.

The process: Domino’s used something that’s quite unusual in marketing and advertising: honesty. Domino’s highlighted its own weaknesses and failures, with its affable CEO Patrick Doyle leading the charge. In fact, real people from inside the company — from the head chef, to marketing folks, to delivery drivers — became actively involved in the messaging that people began seeing in 2010, starting with the “Pizza Turnaround” documentary that was posted on Domino’s new Pizza Turnaround microsite. We’ve embedded it below.

As Doyle says in the documentary, “You can either use negative comments to get you down, or you can use them to excite you and energize your process of making a better pizza. We did the latter.” Continue reading “Case Study: What Pizza Can Teach Us About Branding” →

3 Creative Ideas for Promoting Pet-Related Businesses

Pet facts

People love their pets, and this unwavering affection presents a fantastic opportunity for pet businesses. However, a highly competitive market means standing out is crucial. Here are three creative ideas to help your pet business shine:

  1. Paw-sitive Partnerships: A Purrfect Match with Animal Shelters

Teaming up with local animal shelters is a win-win. Not only do you give back to the community, but you also gain valuable exposure. Whether you’re a pet store owner, dog walker, or groomer, participating in adoption events can:

  • Attract New Customers: Connect with potential clients who are passionate about animal welfare.
  • Build Brand Awareness: Promote your business through signage, flyers, and social media.
  • Foster Goodwill: Show your commitment to the community and its furry friends.

To maximize your impact, consider offering special discounts on your products or services to adopters. Give adopters personalized gifts like pet bowls or water bottles to keep your brand top-of-mind.

  1. Unleash the Power of Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for pet businesses. By sharing adorable photos and videos, you can:

  • Engage Your Audience: Capture hearts and minds with heartwarming content.
  • Build a Community: Connect with fellow pet lovers and share valuable tips.
  • Drive Traffic to Your Business: Encourage followers to visit your website or physical location.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different platforms. While Facebook remains popular, Instagram and TikTok are excellent for visual content. Leverage user-generated content by reposting photos and videos of pets using your products or services. Run contests and giveaways with pet-themed prizes like custom apparel, pet-friendly accessories, or grooming packages.

Pet accessories

  1. Barking Up the Right Tree: Collaborate with Other Businesses

Teaming up with other pet-related businesses can amplify your reach and create unique experiences. By collaborating on events and promotions, you can:

  • Expand Your Reach: Tap into a wider audience and share marketing costs.
  • Create Unique Experiences: Organize joint events like pet fairs, grooming workshops, charity walks or meet-and-greets with pet experts to create a buzz around your business.
  • Strengthen Your Brand: Partner with complementary businesses to offer bundled services or discounts.

Consider cross-promotions with other businesses, such as offering discounts to each other’s customers. You can also collaborate on co-branded marketing materials like flyers, social media posts, or email newsletters.

By combining these strategies with a strong social media presence and exceptional customer service, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving pet business!

Ready to take your business to the next level? Check out our pet promotional products today!

DID YOU KNOW?

May is National Pet Month! 🐾 Celebrate the joy that pets bring to our lives and promote responsible pet ownership with custom promotional products.

Pet Power: Quick Facts

Did you know?

  • 66% of U.S. households are home to furry, feathered, or scaly friends.
  • The global pet care industry is worth a whopping $260 billion.
  • The pet industry is projected to experience a significant growth spurt, reaching 7% annual growth by 2030.

Why Pet Owners Rule:

  • Pet parents are passionate about their pets’ well-being.
  • Pet influencers are taking over social media, creating a massive audience for pet-related products.
  • Millennials and Gen Z generations are driving the pet trend and are willing to spend on their furry companions.

Sources: American Pet Products Association; Veterinary Medical Association

 

Why Photographers are Ditching CDs for USB Drives

Picture this: you’re a photographer, and you’ve just mailed your client a CD filled with awesome images you shot. When the client receives the package, the first thing she does is go to her computer – a slick new Mac – and searches for the CD drive. But wait! There isn’t one.

The client takes a deep breath, unearths her old laptop, boots it up, inserts the CD, and waits. And waits. And waits some more. Nothing. She removes it and inserts it again. Still nothing. Maybe the CD is scratched. Maybe it just needs extra time to load. Or maybe it’s another tech issue altogether. She calls you in a panic because she REALLY needs those images, and, suddenly, all those great shots that you were so proud to share with her become eclipsed by this tech problem.

Has this scenario (or something like it) happened to you? If not, consider yourself lucky. While CDs (and, more recently, DVDs) have been a mainstay of most photography businesses over the last two decades, their necessity today has come into question, and for three important reasons: ease of use, cost, and obsolescence.Custom USB Key Drive, inserted

The good news? A product exists that solves all of these problems: custom USB drives.

In today’s post, we’re highlighting three photographers who’ve made the leap from CDs/DVDs to USB drives, including why they did it, how it’s working for them, and why they haven’t looked back.

Ease of Use (for You AND Your Clients)

Judy Burris and Wayne Richards are authors/freelance writers and nature photographers at ButterflyNature.com in Erlanger, Kentucky. They supply customers with high-resolution images for use in magazines, books, or on educational displays in nature centers and on park signs. Continue reading “Why Photographers are Ditching CDs for USB Drives” →

Celebrating Your Business Anniversary: Small Business Marketing Techniques to Make the Most of the Milestone

Celebrating Your Business Anniversary: Small Business Marketing Techniques to Make the Most of the Milestone

Business anniversaries — whether it’s 10, 15, or 25 years — are an excellent opportunity to celebrate and elevate your brand. It’s a perfect time to show off your success, engage with your community, and promote your business.

Here are some fresh ideas to make the most of your small business anniversary celebration:

Spread the Word Across All Channels

Announce your milestone in multiple places to maximize visibility and establish credibility. Don’t just mention your anniversary once — make it a consistent part of your communications.

  1. Website – Banner
    Add a banner or graphic to your website that proudly showcases your anniversary. This visual should be prominent and ideally placed in the header area, appearing on each page of your site. It’s a simple but effective way to remind visitors of your business’s longevity.
  2. Website – About Page
    Revitalize your About section to include your company’s history, highlighting key moments from your journey. A fun, interactive element like a timeline can help make your story more engaging.
  3. Website – Media/News Page
    If you have a press release or news item about your anniversary, be sure to post it on your website’s Media or News section. A well-crafted press release adds authority to your anniversary celebration and informs your audience.
  4. Email Signatures
    Encourage everyone in your company to include a special email signature, such as “Proudly celebrating 25 years in business” with a link to your anniversary or About page. This way, every email you send highlights the occasion.
  5. Invoices and Receipts
    Don’t forget your digital and printed invoices! Add a creative touch by incorporating an anniversary graphic or tagline. It’s a subtle yet effective way to keep your celebration front and center.
  6. Social Media
    Update your profiles and bio sections across your social media platforms with your anniversary milestone. Create a photo album showcasing your business’s journey over the years, adding fun descriptions to each image. This could also work well on Google+ and Facebook.
  7. Email Newsletters
    In every email campaign, celebrate your milestone. Add an anniversary-themed graphic to the header and feature a fun section in each issue. For example, “Did you know” or “A Look Back” can highlight interesting facts about your company’s history, products, or notable moments.
  8. Voicemail and On-Hold Messaging
    Use your anniversary as a reason to update your voicemail message and on-hold recording. You could feature a brief mention of your milestone, giving customers a sense of your company’s reliability and success.
  9. Storefront Banners/Receipts
    If you have a physical location, put up banners or signage announcing your anniversary. You can also add a note at the bottom of your receipts for a constant reminder every time someone shops with you.
  10. Verbal Announcements
    Don’t forget to mention your anniversary during sales presentations, networking events, and meetings. It’s a natural conversation starter and an opportunity to emphasize your company’s experience and stability.

Show Appreciation with Business Anniversary Gifts

One of the best ways to celebrate your business’s anniversary is by gifting business anniversary presents. Custom business gifts, like drinkware, clothing, pens, and notebooks, can carry your brand’s message and mark the occasion. Consider these fun, memorable ideas that double as giveaways for your customers:

  • Custom Mugs and Tumblers: Give away personalized drinkware to create a lasting connection with customers. With options like travel mugs and coffee cups, your logo will travel everywhere, extending your reach.
  • Branded Apparel: Celebrate in style with custom t-shirts or branded polos. These items are perfect for customer giveaways or even for your employees to wear at the event.
  • Personalized Pens and Notebooks: Perfect for office giveaways, custom pens and notebooks create an enduring connection with your brand, especially when they’re tied to an anniversary theme.
  • Eco-Friendly Gifts: With sustainability in mind, offer reusable tote bags to align with customer values and help the environment.

Small Business Marketing Gifts

Throw a Party or Host an Event

What better way to commemorate your anniversary than with a party? Hosting an event, whether in your own parking lot or a rented space, is a great way to celebrate with your clients and customers. You can even take it up a notch by providing customized items to event attendees.

If you’re in a building with a large parking lot, cordon off part of the lot and set up grills, a bounce house, and other fun stuff. Or be on the lookout for areas with wide open spaces that cater to corporate parties. Consider rural settings, like a farm or renovated barn, for a unique touch to your celebration.

Give Away Prizes and Show Customer Appreciation

Your customers are the reason you’ve reached this milestone — why not share the celebration with them through prizes?

  1. Monthly Giveaways: Offer prizes every month, such as branded calendars or custom pens, for a year to keep the momentum going.
  2. Sweepstakes on Social Media: Host a sweepstakes on Facebook or Instagram (following platform rules, of course) to generate enthusiasm.
  3. Grand Prize at Your Party: Build excitement for your anniversary event by offering a big-ticket prize, such as a tech giveaway or gift certificate. For example, a lighting and sound company might give away a flat-screen TV, or a landscaper could offer a $500 gift certificate to a local nursery, with the added perk of free planting services. This is a fun way to attract attendees and show appreciation to your customers.

By including these fresh ideas, your business anniversary will not only be a celebration but also a great opportunity to engage your audience and reinforce your brand identity. Plus, incorporating fun promotional products is a smart way to keep the excitement — and your business — top of mind.

Halloween Party Ideas & Tips for the Office

office halloween party ideasSoon it will be time for celebrating Halloween! Children and adults alike are looking forward to costumes and Halloween parties providing a great time to show off their creativity and have fun!

Do you celebrate Halloween with your employees?  It’s a fantastic way to promote employee engagement by participating in group activities and have fun doing it!

Party Planning

The key to any party is planning.  Where should the party be? Who should be invited?  What food should be offered? …  There are many questions to get answered when planning an event.  Here are some ideas to consider:  Continue reading “Halloween Party Ideas & Tips for the Office” →

The Ultimate Guide to Promotional Mugs: 12 Unique Styles to Consider

Promotional mugs are the trusty sidekick in the world of branding. They offer a tangible way to connect with your audience — whether you’re handing them out as giveaways, corporate gifts, or selling them as merchandise. Plus, with such a vast array of styles available, each type of mug serves a specific purpose and can be tailored to fit different branding strategies.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore 12 distinct categories of promotional mugs and why you might choose each one.

1. Stainless Steel To-Go Mug

Stainless steel to-go mugs are perfect for those on the move. They offer durability and insulation, keeping beverages hot or cold for extended periods. Ideal for commuters and outdoor enthusiasts, these mugs are often leak-proof and come with convenient features like handles and spill-resistant lids.

Stainless Steel Mugs

2. Cork Bottom Mug

Mugs with cork bottoms combine functionality with eco-friendliness. The cork base provides a unique aesthetic appeal and prevents slipping or scratching on surfaces. This style is trendy and appeals to those who appreciate sustainable materials.

Cork bottom Mugs

3. Bistro Mug

Bistro mugs have a classic and sophisticated design, resembling those found in cozy cafes. They offer a large printing area for logos and designs, making them great for showcasing brand artwork.

Bistro Mugs

4. Planet-Friendly or Eco-Friendly Mug

Our environmentally friendly mugs are made from recycled materials or renewable resources. As a result, they reduce environmental impact without compromising quality or style.

Eco Friendly Mugs

5. Full Color Ceramic Mug, White

Full-color ceramic mugs allow for vibrant, high-resolution printing of intricate designs. The white background makes colors pop, ensuring your branding stands out.

Full Color Mugs

6. Campfire Mug

Campfire mugs evoke a rustic and nostalgic feel, perfect for outdoor-themed promotions or events. Their sturdy build and wide handles make them comfortable to hold.

Campfire Mugs

7. Full Color Ceramic Mug, Color Accent

With the entire surface available for colorful designs, full-color ceramic mugs are versatile and eye-catching. But for an added twist, these mugs come in a range of bright interior colors.

Full Color Ceramic Mugs

8. Color-Changing Mug

Color-changing mugs add an element of surprise. These mugs reveal hidden designs or change color when filled with hot liquids, creating an interactive experience that captivates users.

Color Changing Mugs

9. Glass Mug

Elegant and sleek, glass mugs offer a premium look and feel. They are ideal for showcasing beverages and can be etched or printed with logos for a sophisticated touch.

Glass Mugs

10. Tall Café Mug

Tall café mugs are perfect for serving specialty coffees and teas. Their elongated shape provides ample space for branding while enhancing the drinking experience.

Tall Cafe Mugs

11. Diner Mug

Diner mugs are characterized by their thick walls and large handles, reminiscent of classic American diners. They exude retro charm and are great for vintage-themed campaigns.

Diner Mugs

12. Moscow Mule Mug

Moscow Mule mugs are instantly recognizable by their copper finish and distinctive shape. They add a touch of luxury and are ideal for cocktail-themed promotions.

Confidently Choose the Right Promotional Mug

Whether you prioritize functionality, aesthetics, or sustainability, there’s a mug style that perfectly complements your intentions. A well-chosen mug can turn a simple giveaway into a cherished item that reinforces your brand message every day.

What to put on a pen? Here are some creative ideas…

Custom Rose Gold Pens

The “Write” Choice: Why Pens Are the Perfect Promotional Tool – and Creative Customization Ideas

In the world of promotional items, there’s one humble item that stands out among the rest: the pen. Its practicality, versatility and customization potential make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to leave a lasting impression. In this article, we’ll delve into creative ways to personalize promotional pens to align with your business needs.

For customized pens that stand out and pack a promotional punch, consider:

  • Brand colors and logo: Customizing pens with your brand colors and logo is a no-brainer. It ensures instant brand recognition and reinforces your company’s identity with every use. Choose pens in colors that complement your brand palette and prominently feature your logo for maximum impact.

Custom pens

  • Unique designs and patterns: Break away from the ordinary by opting for pens with interesting designs or patterns. From sleek metallic finishes to vibrant patterns, there are endless options to make your pens stand out. Consider seasonal themes, geometric patterns or whimsical illustrations that resonate with your target audience.
  • Inspirational quotes or messages: Inject a dose of inspiration into your promotional pens by imprinting them with motivational quotes or messages. Choose quotes that align with your brand values or resonate with your target demographic. Inspiring words can make an impression and evoke positive emotions whenever the pen is used.
  • Contact information and call to action: Ensure your promotional pens serve as a valuable marketing tool by including your contact information and a compelling call to action. Whether it’s a website URL, phone number or social media handles, make it easy for recipients to connect with your business. Additionally, incorporate a clear call to action prompting them to visit your website, schedule a consultation or take advantage of a special offer.
  • Eco-friendly materials: Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability by opting for eco-friendly pens made from recycled materials or biodegradable alternatives. Not only does this showcase your environmental responsibility, but it also appeals to eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

Eco Friendly Pens

 

Personalized Pens Offer Ink with Impact

Pens may seem like a simple promotional item, but their effectiveness should not be underestimated. With practicality, cost-effectiveness and longevity on their side, pens are a powerful way to promote your business and leave a lasting impression on your target audience. And by customizing pens with your brand colors, logo, unique designs, inspirational messages and contact information, you can create a promotional tool that speaks volumes about your brand and sets you apart from the competition.