by Hannah
21. July 2010 23:58
Do you have a retail outlet, a shop, that serves walk-in customers? I’ve notice that surprisingly few South African retailers send out email newsletters. A pity, really, considering this:
In a recent US survey by www.emarketer.com it was found that 37% of in-store consumers preferred receiving promotions via email – 18% preferred being informed of promotions via SMS and only 9% wanted to hear about them on social networks like Facebook.
We’re bombarded with promotional messages daily, but email gives you the power to decide which messages you want to receive and when you want to read them. Think about it: When you’re sending out emails to people who subscribed to them these people have already indicated that they’re interested in what you have to offer – and much more likely to be persuaded to participate in a promotion or buy a product.
Email is also one of the most popular methods of communication. The same study also reflected that more than 90% of all adults in the United States have email accounts, whereas only a select few are on Facebook or Twitter. So, even though you might think you reach more people with your social media, you're likely to reach a much wider, more engaged audience with email.
So where are the South African retailers? I want to know what Woolies food products are discounted this week, when Zoom will be getting in their winter boots or when Mr. Price is getting in new stock! Are you providing your customers with the information they want, the way they want it?