For magazine publishing ninjas
Distribution of a free magazine at local businesses
I have a free publication that features local entertainment... I wanted to distribute it in local businesses like bars, clubs, art galleries, clothing stores etc.. What is the best way of going about this? Should I set appointments with the establishment owners first? (I imagine they probably don't want to be bothered and are really busy just running a business) or just talk to what ever manager/ employee that happens to be there at the time? are they going to charge me for space? are there outside companies that will do this? any good tips or advice on what I could actually say to convince an establishment to allow my publication to be there?
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Linda Ruth on -
Hi Bob. In my experience the best way is to go in the the publication and introduce yourself as the publisher. Most of the people you speak with will be pleased and impressed to be speaking with the publisher of a local publication.
Show them the benefits of carrying the publication--that it will feature their business, and the people who pick it up will find additional reasons to visit the business and be encouraged to buy; and also that it will be a benefit itself to the people coming in--something free to offer the customer.
Even better if you can work with the businesses to get coupons in the publication--they can give a discount, with the coupon, on their products or services, and that makes them your partner, and all the more interested in advertising in your publication and carrying it. Maybe they'll run sweeps through the publication.
It would be great, incidentally, to offer them mobile marketing services--get a list going of their customers with their cell numbers and send text messages on days when there are specials, discounts, freebies, anything...that would tie in nicely to what you are doing with print as well.
To begin with the business owners would be happiest if you told them you would take care of everything--coming in to the store with each new issue, putting out the publication, picking up unsolds...since the businesses are local, and the publication is free, it seems as if you or someone you hire (a kid for example) could do it. There are businesses that do this (for example Retail Vision in Vermont) but it will cost something.
Good luck with it!
Linda
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Permalink Reply by Yisreol Ellen on -
Why not offer a coupon section in your magazine and offer the pub a free coupon in return for allowing the magazine to be distributed at their establishment. Eventually you can use the coupon section as a means of generating revenue.
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