GCC Printing and Graphics

In the iconic book, “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” Stephen Covey says successful people “begin with the end in mind.” Why? Because all things are created twice – once through imagination and later in reality. To succeed in business, you must clarify what you’re trying to accomplish and then optimally position your offering before a target market. Covey states this reality in blunt terms : “[In business,] the extent to which you begin with the end in mind often determines whether or not you are able to create a successful enterprise. Most business failures begin in the first creation, with problems such as undercapitalization, misunderstanding of the market, or lack of a business plan.” Building brand awareness is essential if your desired “end” is to grow your sales! Boost Visibility for Your Business Just as it takes a blueprint and nails to build a house, it requires strategic marketing to build your brand. ...

When you think of door hangers, does cash flow come to mind? Perhaps not. However, many businesses find these tangible tools bring a remarkable return on investment. Take this example from a neighborhood tree service. After a violent summer storm in an established neighborhood, many yards were littered with large branches from mature trees. One proactive landscaper was ready with 500 pre-printed custom door hangers, photos, contact information, and an irresistible combo deal pairing yard cleanup with discounts on large-scale trimming packages. Upon distribution, it was common for his business to receive inquiries on projects ranging between $1,000 to $1,500 per job. If 500 door hangers were printed for $100 -- and landed just one job at $1,500 -- the earnings ($1500) minus the investment ($100) would net a remarkable 1400% ROI. Now, THAT is some killer marketing! The Power of Door Hangers in Local Marketing Campaigns Door hangers require some creativity and elbow grease, but ...

Did you know that the average American household receives 454 pieces of marketing mail per year? If you want to make your company’s mailings stand out among all the others, an attractive offer is the key! 92% of Millennials have been influenced to purchase by direct mail. By crafting the perfect offer, you can utilize that impact and guide recipients toward purchasing with your company. 3 Essentials for the Perfect Direct Mail Offer Read on to learn the three key tips to remember when creating an offer for your next direct mail campaign. 1. Build the Offer around the Audience Your offer will be much more effective and generate significantly higher revenue if it’s thoughtfully personalized to target a specific audience. First, brainstorm which target audience you’d like to focus on for this direct mail campaign. Then, consider which offers would be most valuable and tempting to those in that demographic. For instance, a restaurant with a target audience ...

Direct mail is a powerful tool! It can spread the word about your company to prospective customers and help you to engage with existing contacts. According to research,  73% of American consumers say they prefer being contacted by brands via direct mail because they can read it whenever they want. Creating a direct mail plan for your company is essential. However, one simple factor that can increase the response rate for your direct mail is the type of envelope you use! Interestingly, oversized envelopes have the highest direct mail response rate , with the second-highest response rate being 5.7% for postcards and 4.3% for letter-sized envelopes. It’s important to realize that your direct mail has many different sizing options. Read more to find out the perfect size for your next mail campaign! A Quick Guide to Envelope and Insert Sizes Two main categories of envelope sizes can be used for direct mail purposes: A-Style or Commercial.  1. A-Style (Announcement)...

When was the last time your print marketing products exuded a sense of classic luxury and left a lasting memory? Print projects do not have to be dull and two-dimensional. Texture is a vital element in creating visually striking printed materials. It has the power to influence emotions, trigger psychological associations, draw attention to the medium used, or focus our attention on the materials themselves . Welcome to the World of Embossing!   To begin, let us find some common ground on what embossing means. Embossing involves creating a raised design or text on the surface of print materials . Companies today often utilize embossing for their logo, initials, or a specific pattern. While embossing has been around since the 15th century, the process has been refined to provide cost-effective, efficient, and high-quality embossing.  Embossing utilizes a die, a custom metal plate that carries the desired design, and the chosen material, typically paper. The die...

Signage is not just to look pretty. It is essential for your business and its success, especially at events. Standout signage will benefit your event by impressing attendees with welcome displays, informing customers where they should go, keeping a schedule of events visible, thanking sponsors, and more. Team up with our printing professionals to help create the event of the year with innovative and unforgettable signage and displays. Printing for Events: Tips for Standout Signage and Displays Looking for some ideas to begin your journey? Consider the following four ideas. Welcoming First impressions are of the utmost importance for your next event. Ensure your attendees know where they are, why they’re there, where to find specific locations, and most importantly, that they are welcome.  Examples of Welcoming Signage: Feather/Banner Flags: Allow nature to let these flow in the wind to attract views Welcome Banner: The first signage a guest sees upon arri...

With so much emphasis on online advertising and social media, it's easy to overlook the impact of well-executed print materials on your target audience. But how do you measure the success of your print marketing campaigns? While tracking the effectiveness of physical marketing materials may seem complicated, a few key metrics can help you evaluate your efforts. Consider These 11 Metrics for Evaluating the Success of Your Print Campaigns Response Rate The response rate is perhaps one of the most critical metrics for measuring the success of any marketing campaign, including print. This metric assesses the percentage of people who responded to your call-to-action (CTA) after receiving your print materials. This could include visiting your website, purchasing, or completing a form. Conversion Rate Similar to the response rate, the conversion rate measures the percentage of people who not only respond to your CTA but also complete the desired action. For example, if ...

The start of a new year is always exciting for businesses and professionals. It's the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past year, set goals, and plan for the future. As we step into 2024, one thing that should be at the top of your list is updating your business cards. Business cards may seem small, but they are an essential tool for networking and promoting your brand. They provide a tangible representation of you and your business, making it easier for potential clients or collaborators to remember you and reach out in the future. Start the New Year Right with New Business Cards Here are some reasons why getting new business cards should be on your to-do list for the new year. A Fresh Start With every passing year, businesses evolve and change. Your services or products may have expanded, your branding may have been updated, or you might have a new job title. Whatever the changes, it's important to reflect them on your business cards. Outdated informatio...

The new year is the perfect time to make resolutions and lay out goals for your year ahead.  Personal resolutions can help you improve your life or pursue new hobbies, and in the same way, making resolutions for your professional life can motivate you to try new things in the year ahead. 4 Ideas for Marketing Goals to Make in the New Year Dream big and lay the foundations for a successful 2024 with some of these marketing ideas! 1. Upgrade Your Visuals and Images Customers love to engage with marketing that uses high-quality imagery and interesting visuals. So, set the goal for yourself to invest extra time into the visual appeal of your brand this year! Is it time to update your logo or brand identity? Consider using a graphic designer to ensure you have a cohesive look that tells your brand story and engages your audience. Using high-quality images in your marketing materials will also pay off. Consider hiring a photographer or utilizing stock photography from sit...

We're grateful for incredible customers like you all year, especially this season. Taking time for appreciation is important for all of us – for many reasons. Research shows that gratitude has several beneficial effects: Gratitude enables people to savor positive experiences and have greater life satisfaction. Thankful attitudes help individuals cope with stressful circumstances and be resilient in facing challenges. Expressing appreciation strengthens social relationships. Gratitude improves people's health and well-being . According to the Mayo Clinic, feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity while decreasing depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and disease risk. In Mayo's words : "If a pill could do this, everyone would be taking it!" A Year-End Message of Appreciation from Our Business In this holiday season, we want to express our gratitude. Thank you for your patronage, partnership, and loyalty. Print is not about projects; it...

Print projects are crucial for businesses and organizations, whether for marketing, packaging, or brochures. A critical aspect of every print project is selecting the right paper. The type and quality of paper you choose can greatly impact your printed materials and their results.  But with so many available options, how do you know which paper suits your project? 7 Steps to Choose the Perfect Paper for Your Next Print Project Step 1: Identify the Purpose Is your project intended for promotional materials at a trade show or a product catalog for potential customers? The purpose will determine the type of paper you need. For example, for luxury brochures, opt for thicker, glossier paper. For eco-friendly projects, choose recycled paper. Step 2: Consider Your Audience Who will receive your printed materials? Understanding your target audience is crucial. Different demographics may prefer different paper types and quality. For a younger audience, choose vibrant and...

There is power in good copy, but there’s MAGIC in great advertising. Want proof? Enjoy this trip down memory lane! When You Care Enough to Send the Very Best (Hallmark, 1934) Breakfast of Champions (Wheaties, 1935) Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hand (M&Ms, 1954) Betcha Can’t Eat Just One (Lay’s, 1963) The Few, The Proud, The Marines (US Marine Corps, 1977) Just Do It (Nike, 1987) A strong slogan is a snapshot of what the best ads embody. Their idea is short, captures attention, and leaves a lasting impression on consumers long after the message fades. Drafting Short Soundbites with Big Ideas Writing convincing copy is both a skill and an art form. Advertisements should be unique, timely, persuasive, memorable, and concise. Easy, right? If only it were that simple. Whole books are devoted to helping you write 30-second promos, but if you’re looking for the very basics, here are four tips to get you started. 1. Know Your Audienc...

The new year is near, and with it comes new opportunities and ideas! Isn't it time your company joined in on trying something new this year? The new year is the perfect time to begin afresh with your print marketing methods and ideas. Stay current and on-trend with the latest in advertising options. Out with the old and in with the new and fresh ideas for your company! According to research done by Harvard Business School, over 30,000 consumer products are launched yearly. What an incredible amount of new products vying for attention from consumers! With all this competition, let our print marketing specialists work with you to create new, engaging ideas to gain traction in this fast-paced economy. 3 Print Marketing Ideas to Start the New Year Right Branch out to try one of these three exciting and creative marketing ideas to boost your company's profile and exposure. 1. Go Big Stand out from the crowd by literally going big!  Explore the ideas below to get y...

In the last few years, consumers have been increasingly emphasizing the sustainability and eco-friendliness of their favorite brands. A study done by the Harvard Business Review showed that when Gen Z and Millennial customers believe a brand cares about its impact on people and the planet, they are 27% more likely to purchase from it than older generations.  As the world gravitates towards eco-friendliness, the print industry is also evolving, embracing methods that minimize environmental impact without compromising quality or creativity.  4 Ways to Make Your Print Marketing More Eco-Friendly Check out these strategies for taking advantage of the effectiveness of print ( 80% of consumers act on direct mail print advertisements) while factoring in eco-conscious printing practices.  1. Use Recycled Materials One of the easier ways to create more sustainable print marketing is by choosing eco-friendly alternatives to your typical products.  For paper, tr...

The classic tri-fold brochure. These documents with information, images, contact info, and a flashy slogan are commonly seen in clinic waiting rooms, on tourist boards, or inside your local paper. You may wonder, "In this digital age of social media, emails, and streaming services, do brochures still have a place in marketing?"  Absolutely!  Because of their portability, unique designs, tangible quality, and simplicity (no pop-ads interrupting your future customer), brochures offer a creative and effective marketing option to boost your exposure to current and prospective customers. The Role of Brochures in Modern Marketing Here are three reasons why brochures still have a role to play in modern marketing. 1. Slow Down Your Customer Allow your potential customer the time to read about your company on their own terms, without notifications or emails interrupting them. In our fast-paced world, sometimes a simple brochure is just the right amount of re...

Step into the spotlight and discover the captivating world of foil stamping.  Embellishments, like foil stamping, add a wow factor to your printed pieces . This extraordinary printing technique, originating in ancient China, has stood the test of time when artisans first adorned their creations with dazzling gold leaf.  Today, foil stamping still reigns supreme, infusing a touch of luxury and sophistication into business cards, invitations, packaging, and promotional materials. How it Works: The Artistry Unveiled Get ready to be amazed as we reveal the magic of foil stamping. A heated metal die meets a delicate foil sheet, and the magical transformation begins with just a touch of pressure. The adhesive layer on the foil comes alive, gently transferring onto your chosen canvas. The result? A stunning raised metallic design that captures attention and radiates pure brilliance. Types of Foil: A Kaleidoscope of Possibilities Let your imagination run wild with ...

Winter is a season of crisp weather and festive joy. It's a time of year that presents your business with a prime occasion to initiate captivating, themed print marketing campaigns.  From New Year to Valentine's Day, you can leverage plenty of holidays and events during this season to attract customers and boost sales. From Cozy to Cool: 9 Print Marketing Strategies to Beat the Winter Blues Here are 9 special day-themed print marketing campaign ideas for winter. New Year, New You Tap into the popular New Year's resolution trend by promoting your products or services to start the new year off right. For example, a gym could offer eye-catching posters featuring special membership deals for those looking to get healthy. Winter Wonderland Photo Contest Encourage customers to take photos of themselves enjoying your products in a winter wonderland setting. For participants or winners, print customized coupons or discount codes as prizes. Valentine's Day L...

The holiday season can be a busy and stressful time, especially for businesses trying to get their print materials ready before the end of the year. With tight deadlines and high demand, it's crucial to have a well-planned approach when placing last-minute print orders during the holidays.  Here are some tips for successful last-minute holiday printing orders, whether promoting a winter sale, sending holiday cards, or creating a personalized gift. Last-Minute Print Orders for a Stress-Free Holiday? We've Got You Covered! Plan Ahead Plan your holiday print orders well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. Communicate your requirements early so there is sufficient time to prepare and allocate resources for your project. Clearly Communicate Deadlines Clearly communicate your desired delivery date and time. Provide all the necessary details, including any specific requirements or expectations. This will help manage the workflow effectively and ensure timely d...

Marketing is the process of getting potential clients interested in your products or services. The keyword phrase here is the process . Goals aren't just about scoring a touchdown; they encompass every move leading up to that defining movement. In marketing, that includes researching, promoting, and sharing your brand and its offerings.  When (and Why!) Print Marketing is Important Did you know . . .  Print ads require 21% less cognitive effort to process Print advertising drives higher levels of brand recall  than digital (77% vs. 46%) 82% of consumers trust print ads the most when making a purchase decision How does print drive consumer response?  The response rate for direct-mail marketing is 37% higher than the email rate. Nearly 80% of consumers act on direct printed mail advertisements compared to 45% on electronic advertisements. Print and direct mail marketing bring a 9% customer response rate compared to other digital marketing channel...

Supporting small businesses is a vital part of thriving communities, and it's something that should be celebrated and practiced year-round. In a post-COVID economy, consumers are eager to support small businesses. One Consumer Pulse study showed that 93% of Americans believe supporting small businesses they value is important, and 9 out of 10 shoppers said this is even more essential after the pandemic. As further proof, Small Business Saturday has emerged as a significant retail event during the busiest shopping season for small businesses. In 2022, projected spending reached an estimated $17.9 billion , as the 2022 SBS Consumer Insights Survey reported. 4 Fun Ideas for Getting More Shoppers in the Door of Your Small Business Consumers' goodwill and awareness of the importance of small businesses create a massive opportunity. Here are four ideas to kickstart your creativity. 1. Capitalize on Curb Appeal Part of the charm of shopping at small businesses is the expe...

Thanksgiving brings around the start of the holiday season, and it brings with it a season of thankfulness! Gratitude is important for all of us individually because expressing gratitude positively affects our health, mood, and relationships .  Embracing gratefulness helps in the workplace, too. Research has proven that employees who have had gratitude expressed to them put more effort into helping others, are more generous and willing to share profits, and show more loyalty to their company .  Whether you incorporate them in seasonal print marketing materials or share them with your friends, colleagues, or employees, these quotes are sure to inspire and encourage. 25 Gratitude-Filled Quotes to Express Thankfulness 1. "Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well." - Voltaire 2. "Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have...

Despite the more modern online alternatives in advertising today, direct mail will always be a classic and effective strategy for customer engagement. Direct mail boasts a strong overall response rate of 3.7%, outperforming mobile ads (2%) and email and social media marketing (1%).  A personalized URL (PURL) is a unique and helpful tool that can supercharge your direct mail marketing efforts! One of its standout features is the ability to digitally track the response rate for direct mail pieces, giving you data to ensure that your marketing dollars are being put to the best use possible.  3 Benefits of Using PURLs for Direct Mail 1. Make Your Customers Feel Special  Customers love to see marketing items that feel unique to them! Each recipient's name can be incorporated into the PURL, giving you the perfect opportunity to add that touch of personalization to your direct mail.  For example, John Doe's PURL might look like johndoe.trymail.com or john-doe....

Don’t leave attracting customers up to chance; be proactive with direct mail! Employing the ability to reach scores of potential customers in specific regions, direct mail is an excellent vehicle for growing your customer base and publicizing your business creatively and methodically. Direct Mail for Local Businesses: Unique Advantages and Strategies Direct mail marketing is the method of sending out print materials to potential customers. Materials mailed could include postcards, flyers, or catalogs. Scholars have found the earliest versions of direct mailings from ancient Egypt, around 1,000 B.C. Direct mail has come a long way since then, but it still has tremendous benefits for businesses today. Direct Mail Can Physically Bring in Customers A unique advantage to direct mail is that you can mail out a coupon or another promotional item to have customers physically visit your store and redeem it. By bringing customers into your store, sales and business growth can ...

Science rules, not only in the natural world but also in the marketing world. Neuroscience, the study of the brain and nervous system, and marketing go hand in hand, especially in today's competitive world. Utilizing science to gain consumer attention and interest can be incredibly impactful for your products and your business.  Did you know that 90% of buying decisions are made in the unconscious mind? Now imagine harnessing neuroscience, or a better understanding of how the brain works, to create the most impactful customer posters possible.  5 Ways to Use Neuroscience for Impactful Posters Ensure your business's printed posters are seen in the most thoughtful, most efficient way by applying these neuroscience tips: 1) Location Matters Where your posters are located matters. Surroundings, or location, create 60% of the sensory sensations associated with a product, a Nestle research study indicated. Think critically and creatively about what is in your poster a...