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 is always popular as 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. Teachers love free supplies to help make the school year successful. They too also deserve to be awarded prizes that can be used outside of the classroom.
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, if not a bit of home sickness. 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, backpacks, insulated lunch totes(
- Electronics (computers, tablets, cellphones, calculators)
- Dorm Room Necessities (bedding, posters, chairs, decorations, mini-fridge, microwave, shower accessories, noise-cancelling headphones, cleaning supplies, ready-to-heat food)
- Gift Cards (for the school bookstore, coffee shops, local eateries, grocery stores, or the ever-popular Amazon gift card)
- New Clothes and Sneakers
- Tutoring Services and Test Prep
For the teachers:
- Classroom supplies (personal desk organization tools, classroom management materials, storage bins, 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
- Car wash and detailing package
- Summer-related items, such as: water toys, beach accessories, bikes, camping gear (way to get rid of inventory)
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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