DMJ 1 on 1: How To Master The 3 R’s Of Business with Branded Merch

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  This time Kirby talks about mastering the 3 R’s of business…and how branded merch can help.  Watch now!

How To Master The 3 R’s Of Business with Branded Merch

Mastering the three R’s of business – retention, repeat business, and referrals – is a crucial aspect of any successful enterprise. In this article, we delve into the importance of these three R’s and how branded merchandise can be leveraged to optimize these business aspects. We’ll explore how showing appreciation to your customers can significantly improve retention, how branded merchandise can boost repeat business, and how it can also incentivize referrals, thereby contributing to business growth.

Branded merchandise is not just a marketing tool; it’s a tangible representation of your brand that customers can appreciate and remember. It’s a way to make your business more top-of-mind for your customers, increasing the likelihood of repeat business and referrals. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to master the three R’s of business with branded merch.

Retention

Customer retention is a vital aspect of any successful business. It’s often said that it’s cheaper to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one. However, many businesses lose customers due to perceived indifference. This is where showing appreciation to your customers comes into play.

One effective way to show appreciation is through the use of branded merchandise. It’s a tangible way to express gratitude, making your customers feel valued and appreciated. Consider creating a quarterly appreciation program for your top customers, where you can distribute branded merchandise as tokens of your appreciation. This not only improves customer retention but also strengthens your brand’s relationship with its customers.

Repeat Business

Repeat business is the lifeblood of any successful enterprise. It’s a testament to your brand’s quality and reliability. Branded merchandise can play a significant role in increasing the frequency and size of customer orders. A study showed that customers who received branded merchandise ordered 18% faster and 18% more, highlighting the impact of branded merchandise on repeat business.

Offering customers something of value, like branded merchandise, helps them remember your brand when making a purchase. It’s also important to consider where your ideal customer is when they realize they need your brand’s service. By strategically placing your branded merchandise, you can ensure that your brand is top-of-mind when your customer needs your service.

Referrals

Referrals are a powerful tool for business growth. A happy customer is the best brand ambassador, and with the right incentives, they can refer others to your business. Branded merchandise can be an effective incentive for customers to refer others.

Consider creating a referral program where customers are rewarded with branded merchandise for successful referrals. The key here is to utilize quality branded merchandise that represents your brand well. This not only incentivizes referrals but also ensures that your brand is represented positively in the eyes of potential customers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, branded merchandise is more than just a marketing piece; it’s a tool that can significantly improve customer retention, boost repeat business, and incentivize referrals. By strategically utilizing branded merchandise, businesses can ensure that they are always top-of-mind for their customers, leading to increased business growth and success.

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

DMJ 1 on 1: What Are All These Charges on Branded Merch?

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  This time Kirby tackles the question everyone has been asking.  “What are all these charges on Branded Merch?”  Have you ever been confused or frustrated by your invoice after purchasing branded merch?  Then this episode is for you!  Watch now…and feel free to read below.

DMJ 1 on 1: What Are All These Charges on Branded Merch?

The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. It’s a common experience for clients to receive an invoice that’s significantly higher than the initial quote, leading to confusion and frustration. Today we set out to demystify the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers on the various charges associated with it.

The video acknowledges the complexity of the pricing structure in the branded merchandise industry. It explains that these extra charges are often necessary for suppliers to compete on price in the industry.  The goal of the video and this article is to provide insight into the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers about the extra charges associated with it.

Screen Charges

Screen charges are fees associated with creating physical screens for screen printing. These charges are necessary for each color used in the design. This means that a design with multiple colors will have multiple screen charges. Suppliers often save screens for up to two years, which can save on costs for repeat orders. However, screen charges can significantly impact the cost of branded merchandise, especially for small orders or designs with multiple colors.

While these charges may seem excessive, they are a necessary part of the screen printing process. The creation of screens involves labor and materials, and these costs need to be covered. Understanding this can help clients make informed decisions about their design and color choices.

Setup Fees

Setup fees are another common charge in the branded merchandise industry. These fees cover the time and labor required to set up machines and prepare for printing. Setup fees are common in digital printing and other printing methods that don’t require physical screens. Repeat setup fees may be charged for subsequent orders of the same design. These fees help suppliers cover the cost of labor and maintain competitive pricing.

Run Charges

Run charges are additional fees for running the job multiple times or in different locations. These charges may apply when printing multiple colors or printing in different areas of the product. Additional run charges can increase the overall cost of the order, especially for small quantities or complex designs.

Embroidery Charges

Embroidery charges are associated with creating digital files and setting up embroidery machines. A DST file is used to guide the sewing machine and ensure accurate embroidery. Embroidery charges are typically a one-time fee unless modifications to the design are requested. Keeping the art consistent can help avoid additional charges.

Art Charges

Art charges may apply when the provided artwork needs to be converted to a vector or camera-ready format. Vector art ensures that the design remains clear and doesn’t pixelate when resized. Art charges can be avoided by providing high-quality vector art. However, suppliers may need to clean up or modify artwork, resulting in additional charges.

Proof Charges

Proof charges are fees for reviewing and approving artwork before production. Proof charges act as an insurance policy to ensure the correct artwork is used. Some suppliers may charge proof fees, while others may not. As Kirby mentioned in the video, this charge can be a source of frustration for distributors and clients.  But these charges have been created by using the supplier as the “art department” and requesting multiple proofs on every order.  Implementing a system of one free proof could encourage better artwork preparation.

Less Than Minimum Charges

Less than minimum charges are fees for ordering quantities below the supplier’s minimum requirement. Suppliers may charge less than minimum fees to compensate for the inconvenience of producing smaller quantities. These charges cover the cost of handling and storing excess inventory.

PMS Color Match Charges

PMS color match charges are fees for matching specific colors using the Pantone Matching System. PMS color match ensures precise color reproduction for brands with specific color requirements. Matching colors accurately may require additional time and effort, resulting in extra charges.  This fee will be charged for each color that needs to be specifically matched.

Shipping Charges

Shipping charges cover the cost of delivering the branded merchandise to the client. Shipping charges are necessary when products need to be shipped across the United States. Suppliers may include shipping charges in the overall pricing or list them separately. Considering shipping options and planning ahead can help mitigate shipping charges.  But make no mistake, no distributor has the space to house the (over) 1 million promotional products for sale.  So there will be a cost of shipping to deliver your order.

Conclusion

The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. However, understanding these charges can help clients make informed decisions and avoid surprises on the invoice. The goal of this article is to educate viewers about the extra charges associated with branded merchandise and provide insight into the pricing structure of the industry.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to ask for all charges upfront. This can help avoid surprises on the invoice and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. So the next time you’re ordering branded merchandise, don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need.

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

 

DMJ 1 on 1: 5 Must-Haves for a Health & Wellness Program

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  Unveiling our latest video, DMJ 1 on 1: The 5 Must-Haves For a Health & Wellness Program. Submerge yourself into the critical components required to craft a triumphant health and wellness program within your organization.  Watch now…and dig in below.

The latest DMJ 1 on 1 brings to light five essential components for a health and wellness program to have a significant impact. Kirby shares this involvement in health and wellness programs through their work in communications and branded merch. They highlight the financial benefits of implementing a health and wellness program, such as lower medical costs and reduced absenteeism. This article will delve into these five must-haves and explain why they are critical for the success of any health and wellness program.

These five components are an enrollment plan, a design plan, a merch plan, a communication plan, and an exercise plan. Each of these plays a unique role in ensuring the effectiveness and success of a health and wellness program. They not only help in engaging the participants but also ensure that the program is aligned with the organization’s brand guidelines, thereby creating a unique identity for the program. Let’s explore each of these components in detail.

Enrollment Plan

The first must-have for a successful health and wellness program is an effective enrollment plan. This plan is crucial to ensure active participation and engagement in the program. It’s not enough to just have a program in place; it’s equally important to create excitement and engagement around it. This can be achieved through effective communication and marketing strategies.

One of the ways to generate interest and encourage sign-ups is by utilizing email scripts, videos, and CEO involvement. A multi-step enrollment process can also be implemented to increase engagement and commitment. This process can help in creating a sense of ownership among the participants, thereby increasing their commitment to the program.

Design Plan

Next up is the design plan. It’s recommended to have a design plan that aligns with the organization’s brand guidelines but is unique to the health and wellness program. This helps in creating a distinct identity for the program, which can encourage self-identification and accountability among participants.

It’s important to get buy-in from the marketing team to ensure the consistency and effectiveness of the design plan. A well-thought-out design plan can not only reflect the brand guidelines but also distinguish the health and wellness program from other initiatives of the organization.

Merch Plan

A merch plan is another essential component of a health and wellness program. It’s important to provide quality and appealing merchandise that aligns with the program’s goals and values. This can serve as a motivation for the participants and encourage them to actively participate in the program.

Consider having a strategic merch release plan to maintain participant engagement and motivation. Also, it’s advisable to pre-plan and order merchandise in advance to ensure timely delivery and avoid last-minute stress. This can help in keeping the participants excited and engaged throughout the program.

Communication Plan

A communication plan is crucial to regularly engage and inspire participants. This can include daily or weekly communication via email, text, or a company app. Consistent communication is key to motivate and educate participants about the program and its benefits.

Various communication channels can be utilized to reach participants effectively. It’s also important to incorporate mental health components into the communication plan to address holistic well-being. This can help in creating a comprehensive health and wellness program that caters to the physical as well as mental health of the participants.

Exercise Plan

Last but not least, an exercise plan is necessary for a successful health and wellness program. This plan should provide information and options for different types of exercise, including meditation and workouts at the workstation. Offering exercise resources and guidance can empower participants to take control of their fitness and mental health.

The exercise plan should include options for various exercise types, such as meditation, yoga, and workouts that can be done at the workstation. It’s important to ensure that the exercise plan is attainable and adaptable to accommodate participants’ different schedules and work environments. This can help in making the program more inclusive and effective.

Conclusion

The fact is, most health and wellness programs lack all five of these components. However, having them can significantly impact the program’s effectiveness. By incorporating these five must-haves, organizations can create a comprehensive and effective health and wellness program that not only benefits the participants but also contributes to the organization’s overall success.

Want to learn more about the Hasseman Marketing Total Wellness program?  You can find more information on how we can help with all 5 of these elements here.

Thirsty Thursday – It’s either Floor Cleaner or Porch Stain

You know what time it is!  It’s time for Thirsty Thursday! Thirsty Thursday is the award-winning piece of content from Hasseman Marketing where we take a mystery drink out of a piece of branded drinkware! Be careful…it’s not for everyone. This week we feature the 17 oz watercolor drip ceramic mug from Bel Promo.  It’s a fun one.  Get ready to giggle…and be jealous of this new piece of drinkware.  Watch now!

Branded Drinkware from Bel Promo

Our drinkware for today’s episode is a 17 oz watercolor drip ceramic mug from Bel Promo. This mug is not just a vessel for your favorite beverage, but a piece of art in itself. The watercolor drip design gives it a unique and appealing look, making it a standout piece on any table or desk.

What’s great about this mug is its affordability coupled with its high perceived value. It’s a quality product that doesn’t break the bank, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to impress their clients or employees. We’ve also noticed a fun trend of adding quirky imprints on these mugs, adding a touch of personality to the corporate branding. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in how your brand is perceived.  To learn more… head to our shop here.

Tasting the Mystery Drink

Now, let’s move on to the exciting part of the show – tasting the mystery drink. We’ve poured the drink into our Bel Promo mugs and are ready to take our first sip. The initial reaction is a mix of surprise and intrigue. The flavor is complex and hard to pin down, with a sweet and salty undertone that leaves us wanting more.

As we continue to sip, we start making guesses about the type of the drink. Is it a craft beer with a unique flavor profile? Or perhaps a flavored coffee with a twist? The suspense is part of the fun, and we’re all eager to find out what this mystery drink is.

Revealing the Mystery Drink

And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – the revelation of the mystery drink. It turns out to be a salted caramel coffee ale, a unique blend that combines the best of both worlds. The initial sweetness of the caramel is balanced by the bitterness of the coffee, with a hint of saltiness that adds an extra layer of complexity.

Our final thoughts on the drink are mixed. Some of us love the unique flavor combination, while others find it a bit too adventurous. But regardless of our opinions on the drink, we all agree on one thing – the quality of the Bel Promo mug has significantly enhanced our tasting experience.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this episode of Thirsty Thursday, we can’t help but praise the quality of the Bel Promo mug once again. Its unique design, high perceived value, and affordability make it a great gift for customers or as a room gift. It’s a product that people will use daily, keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds.

Here’s a big thank you to our viewers for tuning in. We hope you enjoyed this episode of Thirsty Thursday as much as we did. Until next time, stay thirsty!

Each Thirsty Thursday, we feature a cool piece of branded drinkware.  To learn more… head to our shop here.

Thanks for watching!  Again, purchase for your team here…or contact your Hasseman Marketing team member.

Hasseman Marketing is your one-stop marketing shop.  We work hard to “Deliver #MarketingJoy to you.  Oh…and we want to make sure you hit the TARGET in your marketing.  If you want to learn now, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here for FREE!

Thirsty Thursday: Hydro Flask® Wide Mouth 24oz Bottle with Flex Straw Cap

You know what time it is!  It’s time for Thirsty Thursday! Thirsty Thursday is the award-winning piece of content from Hasseman Marketing where we take a mystery drink out of a piece of branded drinkware! Be careful…it’s not for everyone. This week we feature the Hydro Flask® Wide Mouth 24oz Bottle with Flex Straw Cap from PCNA.  It’s a fun one.  Get ready to giggle…and be jealous of this new piece of drinkware.  Watch now!

 

Welcome to another exciting episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we explore the world of beverages, one sip at a time. In this episode, our hosts are faced with a mystery drink, concealed within a branded Hydro Flask Wide-mouth 24 oz bottle with a flex straw cap. This intriguing drinkware was generously donated by PCNA, adding an extra layer of suspense to our taste-testing adventure.

For those new to Thirsty Thursday, our series is all about the exploration and discovery of new flavors, with a healthy dose of fun and banter. Our hosts, a diverse group of beverage enthusiasts, are always eager to take on the challenge of identifying and reviewing mystery drinks. The Hydro Flask® Wide Mouth 24oz Bottle with Flex Straw Cap with its sleek design and practical flex straw cap, is the perfect vessel for today’s mystery drink. Retailing for just under $50, it’s a high-quality piece of drinkware that’s sure to keep our beverage at the perfect temperature.

Initial Reactions to the Mystery Drink

As the hosts uncapped the Hydro Flask, the anticipation was palpable. They revealed that the mystery drink had been marinating since the last recording, adding a touch of apprehension to their initial excitement. The Hydro Flask, with its high-quality build and stylish design, was met with unanimous approval. However, the mystery drink inside was a different story.

The revelation that the drink had been resting in the flask since the last recording led to a mix of excitement and apprehension. Would the flavors have intensified over time, or would they have mellowed out? The hosts were eager to find out. Their initial reactions were a mix of curiosity and apprehension, with the Hydro Flask’s high perceived value adding an extra layer of intrigue.

Tasting the Mystery Drink

Upon tasting, the hosts had mixed reactions. Some found the mystery drink bland, while others detected notes of cherry, raspberry, and possibly green tea. The drink had a slight burn, not too sweet, and more fruity than sugary, which led to a unanimous description of it as a “Kool-Aid with a burn”.

The hosts engaged in a lively discussion about the possible flavors detected in the drink. They compared the mystery drink to other known beverages, trying to pinpoint its unique flavor profile. Despite the mixed reactions, the hosts were all intrigued by the complexity of the mystery drink and its unexpected flavor combination.

Revealing the Mystery Drink

The moment of truth arrived, and the mystery drink was revealed to be an Absolute Pineapple Martini. This revelation surprised the hosts, as none of them had detected any pineapple flavor. The unexpected flavor profile of the drink sparked a lively discussion among the hosts, who were intrigued by the unexpected twist.

The hosts expressed their surprise at the revelation, with some even questioning their taste buds. The unexpected flavor profile of the Absolute Pineapple Martini led to a lively discussion about how flavors can be masked or enhanced by other ingredients. Despite the surprise, the hosts agreed that the mystery drink was a refreshing change from the usual beverages they encounter.

Final Verdict

Despite the unexpected reveal, the hosts gave the Absolute Pineapple Martini a thumbs up. They suggested that it would be refreshing on ice, making it a perfect drink for a hot summer day. The Hydro Flask also received high praise for its high perceived value and practical design, with the hosts recommending it to viewers as a stylish and durable drinkware option.

The hosts’ final verdict on the mystery drink was positive, with many expressing a desire to try it again in the future. They also shared their recommendations for how to best enjoy the Absolute Pineapple Martini, suggesting it would be perfect for a summer barbecue or a relaxing evening at home. The Hydro Flask was also a hit, with the hosts praising its high perceived value and recommending it to viewers as a worthy investment.

Conclusion

The hosts expressed their appreciation for PCNA’s donation of the Hydro Flask, which added an extra layer of excitement to the taste-testing experience. They encouraged viewers to check out more drinkware pieces on their shop, promising a wide range of high-quality options to suit all tastes and budgets.

In their final remarks, the hosts thanked PCNA for their generous donation and encouraged viewers to continue exploring new flavors and beverages. They signed off with a reminder to stay hydrated and keep an open mind when it comes to trying new drinks. After all, you never know when you might stumble upon your next favorite beverage.

Each Thirsty Thursday, we feature a cool piece of branded drinkware.  To learn more… head to our shop here.  And if this was just too much fun, then you can watch more!  Check out our last episode here.  

Thanks for watching!  Again, purchase for your team here…or contact your Hasseman Marketing team member.

Hasseman Marketing is your one-stop marketing shop.  We work hard to “Deliver #MarketingJoy to you.  Oh…and we want to make sure you hit the TARGET in your marketing.  If you want to learn now, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here for FREE!