A problem with imprint items is the print area is so small. I offer VA services & technical services & would like to put that on my item.

I was at the car repair shop the other day & there was a match book from another business on the counter. There's a lot of space on a match book compared to most items!

We burn a lot of incense, so I always pick up match books when I see one, so they aren't just for smokers.

Here's a really great part, too. I know four over the road truck drivers who would be willing to drop my match books off at truck stops, restaurants, motels, etc. as they travel.

I know this imprint item is usually for bars & restaurants, but I'm thinking of giving it a try. It's something different & I have a unique delivery system.

What do you think?

__________________
Lezly Harrison
Laserdog Productions - Code that Doesn't Bite

Hey Lezley - Why not? I think the thing about marketing is that you can never do too much of it. So any place and any time you have a marketing opportunity, go for it! That's my 2 cents.

__________________
Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

I'm popping this to the top because I'd like more input on this. I've asked around & I'm getting about 20% of the people say they'd be turned off by a company that hands out match books. This really surprises me!

What do you think?

__________________
Lezly Harrison
Laserdog Productions - Code that Doesn't Bite

Lezly - I think it just depends on the industry. I think it is important to target your audience with what will be useful to them. A year ago I was working an event and I was consulting with the owner and they wanted to spend money on little calendars. I advised them that it would be better if they gave away things that people would not immediately go and trash. It was hot and summer time, so logo'd water bottles or hand sanitizer bottles. Things people will reuse and repurpose. Matches tend to be one of those things that goes in a drawer and is never used again.

That's just my 1 cent.

__________________
Pam Blackman - The Process Coach
Get more done in less time by streamlining!

Thanks for the feedback, Pam.

I'm still going to do the matches, but it will not be an item that gets handed out indiscriminately. Maybe just for my trucker friends & after hour's events. I think that would work.

A little Americana, for those still with me: My mother & step-father were smokers & although I hated the smell of the smoke, I loved watching smoke. It's so elusive & ethereal, and then, it dissipates & is gone. I also loved match books & even they both had lighters, they collected match books. We had a big jar full of match books in the kitchen.

Interesting how some things are tied to old memories, regardless of the current take on them.

FYI, I am not a smoker & neither is my sister.

__________________
Lezly Harrison
Laserdog Productions - Code that Doesn't Bite

You rarely even see matchbooks anymore like you used to. I don't smoke, never have - but I always grabbed a book of matches.

I would give them to your truckers. Also - use them as a calling card if you go and personally make appointments to introduce your businesses. You can find smoke shoppes in many business towers/complexes - perhaps find areas where business professionals gather for lunch/meetings etc.

Let us know how this matchbook idea turns out. I don't know how expensive they are, but I hope it is a good investment for you!

__________________
Deb's Professional Services
http://www.debsprofessionalservices.com

Originally Posted by virtual writing

Hey Lezley - Why not? I think the thing about marketing is that you can never do too much of it. So any place and any time you have a marketing opportunity, go for it! That's my 2 cents.

I agree with Mary. Although matches may not be for everyone in your target market, some will appreciate them. I have never been a smoker, I actually despise it - that being said,, I burn a lot of candles, and therefore always collect matches.

__________________
Stacy White, Spectrum Office Solutions
www.ask4sos.com