There are a lot of shoppers and eyes online in July, August and September. Perfect timing for running online promotions geared toward back-to-school. And now is the perfect time to start planning!
Simple Back to School sweepstakes with great prizes are always popular as it there is low or no barrier to entry yet the reward can be high. A social sweepstakes may work for a campus event. User-generated content contests can be used to wrap up summer experiences or look ahead to the school year to garner deeper insight and engagement. If fiscally appropriate, discounts and coupons that tie directly back to your product or service will send consumers to your online site or brick and mortar shop.
Different Target Groups:
Keep in mind the audience you are trying to reach with your promotion.
Parents – As the primary shoppers for their students, they make most of the key decisions when it comes to the purchases. While they love a great deal for their children, they also love a little something special just for them after surviving a household full of kids for summer break.
Teachers – The heroes of the classroom often spend their own money on classroom supplies and decorations if their budgets are small. Teachers love free supplies to help make the school year successful. They too also deserve to be awarded prizes that can be used out of the class room.
College Students – The group on a budget. Many college students are still being supported by their parents which can come with rules and strict budgets. Cool accessories and furniture for their dorm rooms is always coveted, as is free food.
Prizing Ideas
For the kids:
- School supplies (books, notebooks, pens/pencils, back packs, lunch bags)
- Electronics (computer, tablet devices, cell-phones, calculators) A recent study shows that the largest chunk of a household’s back-to-school budget goes to electronic devices!
- Dorm Room Necessities (bedding, posters, chairs, computers, decorations, mini-fridge, microwave, shower accessories, noise cancelling headphones, cleaning supplies, ready-to-heat food)
- Gift Cards for text books, coffee shops, local eateries, or grocery stores
- New Clothes and Sneakers / Hair Cuts
- Tutoring Services / Test Prep
Specifically for teachers:
- Classroom supplies (books, pens/pencils, art supplies, cleaning supplies, decorations, paper goods)
- Restaurant gift cards
- Spring Break travel package
Prizes that adults (with or without children) will be interested in. You should also think of ways to tie-in your products and services that might not have a direct correlation with back-to-school. Get creative!
- Adults only vacation
- Spa services (manicures, massages)
- Car wash (detail and clean after all of your summer adventures)
- Summer Related Items – water toys, beach accessories, bikes, camping gear (way to get rid of inventory)
Last but certainly not least, don’t forget that everyone loves cold hard cash.
Whatever you choose to do for your next Back to School promotion, Marden-Kane can help you plan and execute it. Contact us for help finding the right sweeps, contest and prizing options for you!
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