I have a client that is wanting to purchase a list of emails to local businesses so he can send them a marketing piece. This is something I have never dealt with - so I don't know if it's even possible.

Do any of you know the guidelines or if this is something that is even a good idea?

I found a few places that "rent" you a list that they send on their behalf. It was about $500 for 1784 emails - that you can send one message to.

I was trying to convince him that a direct mail is better - but I don't have much to support it.

What do you all think of this? Or do you know of a better way to go about it?

He's looking to target local businesses - he runs a social sports league.

Is he involved with a local chamber. Our local chamber sells an email blast to all members and also sells address labels for all members (300 members) for around $50. If he is looking to target local business, this may be the way to go.

__________________
Cindy Schroeder
Bright Bookkeeping

I'm with Cindy. You can find a company that does email blasts for anywhere from $35 - $300 depending on the size of their lists. You can also try Melissadata.com. They provide lists for direct mailing but I think you can also purchase emails from them.

__________________
Shellye L. Lyons, Business/Marketing Manager ~~ The Lyons Group, LLC

Thanks for the help! I will check out both!

I would highly suggest you familiarize yourself with the CAN-SPAM Act.

It sounds to me like you are being asked to send unsolicited marketing e-mail material to non-customers. Which, I believe, violates the Act.

__________________
Robin A. Holstein
Robin's Desktop

Robin - I was concerned with that also so I read it very closely and as long as we follow all the guidelines I don't think that he will be violating the Act.

I believe I have convinced him to go with a physical mailing instead but wanted to get some other feedback too.

Thank you for the response!