We currently live in an era dominated by digital marketing and online interactions. And because everything is up in ‘the cloud’ or ‘the internet’, it’s natural to presume that everything marketing-related should be done only online.
Precisely because of this, it is more important than ever before to embrace something that can actually be touched and use it as a marketing tool. Just think of a nice-looking business card and how it would feel in your hands, or a handwritten note. It just hits differently than that digital ad you’ve seen for the hundredth time today.
In this article, we’ll talk about digital marketing and how tangible branding beats it in numerous areas by creating a memorable experience for customers that forms a stronger emotional connection, leading to increased brand loyalty.
Modern Branding and Printed Materials
Online/digital marketing is all you need, right? Well, no. If you think that and if that’s all you’re focused on, you’re missing out on a branding strategy that can make a world of difference – tangible stuff. For example, you could combine a brochure with a digital campaign to reinforce your message and make it more memorable.
There’s no way that wouldn’t make a stronger impact than just a digital campaign on its own. Personalized printed items (e.g., custom invitations or thank-you cards) can create unique experiences for your audience and show them you really care about THEIR engagement. It makes them feel special and shows that they mean something – they aren’t just a number.
But keep in mind that the quality of these materials isn’t something to overlook. The item holds your brand name and logo; it represents your brand. This is why you want to make it of exceptional quality.
High-quality paper, good design, and professional finishes say you’re committed to excellence and pay attention to details. Services like those offered by Mines Press can help you get this level of quality and customization and make sure that your printed materials align with your brand strategy.
Tangible Branding Elements Every Business Needs
A lot of business happens online these days, but holding something in your hand feels a lot different than just seeing it on a screen. Here are some of the most effective printed tools all businesses need.
- Business Cards
These are still some of the most important tools in professional networking. They’re a quick, convenient way to share your contact details, but more importantly, they represent your brand in a personal, physical form. A good business card will help you stay memorable long after the conversation is over.
It should reflect your brand colors, logo, and tone. That could be professional, creative, minimal, etc. Remember that good cards aren’t cluttered. Instead, they’re easy to read and feel high-quality in the hand.
- Packaging
A lot of times, packaging is the first physical interaction someone has with your brand, and that first impression is very important. You could be shipping products or handing them out in-store, but the packaging still needs to tell your brand’s story.
Nicely designed packaging shows care and professionalism, plus it gives your customers a sense of what your business is about. Unique shapes, clever messaging, and consistent design can make packaging go from basics to something people remember and even share with others.
- Brochures and Flyers
Brochures and flyers are ideal when you need to share more than a quick message. With them, you have the space to explain your products, services, or values in more detail, and they’re easy for customers to take with them or pass along.
A strong brochure is not just blocks of text; there should be a layout, images, and structure that guides the reader’s eye and keeps them engaged. Flyers work well for promotions and events, especially when they’re designed to be eye-catching and easy to glance over.
- Promotional Products
This would be your branded merchandise, like pens, mugs, tote bags, etc. They can keep your business top of mind long after someone first interacts with it. People love freebies, especially when they’re useful/practical. And if they’re well-made and carry your logo, they’ll also promote your brand every time someone uses them. Not only that, but it will also form a subconscious connection between your brand and quality.
Here’s an example: a brand that focuses on sustainability and uses merch as its ‘tangible’ marketing tool should ensure the merch is made using only eco-friendly materials.
Think about what you want to achieve with this? The sole goal is to create something that feels like almost an extension of your brand; not just a random freebie.
Conclusion
Swiping, scrolling, and tapping are completely fine. We’re used to them, we like them, we do it all the time. But nothing beats holding something real. Tangible branding is smart, it sticks, and it’s just way more memorable.
Digital tools will get your foot in the door, but print will help you stay in the room.
