Print Coupons Are Valuable Tool for Driving Business

With the advent of the Internet and mobile technology, it may seem that print advertising has gone by the wayside. However, that is simply not true. In fact, there are still many legitimate, valuable uses for print advertising. One of those opportunities is coupons.

We see coupons in grocery stores constantly. Every Sunday paper has coupons that give customers incentive to try new products or new versions of older products. Why is that? Simply put, coupons work.

So how can you use coupons effectively if you're not running a grocery store? Here are some ideas to consider:

Return Business

Coupons are one of the best ways to obtain return business. For example, consider creating a "Buy 10, Get 1 Free" card. This type of coupon works well for businesses that sell multiples of the same type of product. Examples might include "Buy 10 earrings, Get 1 Free" or "Buy 10 ink cartridges, Get 1 Free."

Another option is to offer a coupon to every customer who makes a purchase, inviting them back into your store or to your website. Choose a specific dollar amount or percentage off the customer's next purchase with you. You can track return visits to see how much business this method generates.

QR Code Coupons

If you'd like customers to visit your website, you can create coupons with QR codes that will take them to a specific landing page on your website where they'll find a special offer. Since the QR code lands on one specific page, you can track the number of people who use it to see if your clients respond to this type of advertising. An example could be a limited time offer on a specific product or service that you're promoting at that time.

Mixed Promotion Coupon

Another incentive for driving business is to match a special event with a discount coupon. Start by creating a flyer that announces the event with a coupon attached as a reward for customers who choose to attend. This type of advertising works well for a business that can demonstrate products. For instance, an art supply store might offer demos of specific products for customers who present the coupon. The combination of the demo and the coupon offer the incentive for return business.

New Business Coupon

Everyone loves a bargain, especially if they're shopping for something expensive. If your business offers higher-priced products or services, a price-matching coupon might drive new business. For instance, if you're in the car industry, you could develop a coupon for new customers that offers to match their best offer on a specific model car or a free service if you can't match the price. Since higher-priced items trigger budget-conscious shopping, this type of coupon will drive new business to your door. Try partnering with related businesses to help distribute your coupon, add the coupon to the newspaper bundle, or mail it to local consumers who fit your target base.

Creative couponing reaches customers looking for a bargain. If that bargain is fulfilled with exemplary customer service and support, the result is often a stronger a relationship that leads to referrals and return business.