Category: blog

Does your business have a marketing budget in place? Do you even know where to start in determining what that budget should be? It can seem confusing, trying to set a budget for something like marketing expenses, especially if you haven’t got a full marketing plan in place. However, you can set a budget based on several other things you know about your business. Here’s how to determine what you should be spending annually on your marketing budget.

Business paperwork, finance success and accounting concept: clipboard with financial report documents, office calculator and ballpoint pen isolated on white background

Look at your projected gross revenue

Basically, the amount you spend on marketing should be directly related to how much you anticipate earning in gross revenue. This is good advice for any industry, but every industry has its own additional factors to consider. You’ll have to look at the industry you’re in, how much your competitors spend on their marketing, how many years you’ve been in business, and your projected growth strategy.

Consider how long you’ve been in business

Newer businesses are going to need to spend more money in marketing than older, established ones. Despite any ‘suggested guidelines’ that say what percentage you should be spending, you’ll probably find that you’ll need to set aside a higher percentage of your estimated gross earnings, at least for the first couple of years. Some businesses may budget up to 20% of their estimated gross, but your business may not need that much. Or, it could require more, depending on the industry.

Consider the size of your business

Bigger business tend to spend a lower percentage of their estimated gross because they have a much higher estimated revenue than smaller ones. Every business varies, depending on your size and revenue, but it’s suggested that smaller businesses with less than five million dollars in revenue should anticipate budgeting 7-8% of their estimated gross revenue for budgeting.

Making your budget work

You can budget a huge percentage of your income for marketing, but if you don’t spend that money wisely, it won’t help your business. Make a list of the types of marketing tools you plan to use, from billboards and signs to travel for trade shows and social media marketing.

For more great tips on marketing for your business, stop by Postcard Portables today.

For entrepreneurs, it can be difficult to know when to take a break. When summertime arrives, you may be torn between growing your business and enjoying a well-deserved vacation. There’s no denying that a break every now and then is vital for avoiding burnout, so don’t just skip that summer break. Here are some planning tips for entrepreneurs to help you survive the summer and take the break you need.

Know why you need a break

Just because you can work seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, doesn’t mean you should. Breaks are important, especially if you’re trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Taking a break in the summertime is likely something you’d do if you worked for someone else, so don’t skip this just because you’re the boss. A relaxing break–even one that lasts a week–can rejuvenate you and spark your creativity, helping you avoid burnout and making your work seem less stressful in the long run.

Plan ahead

If you have employees, start planning your time off at the first of the year. Will you all take a break at the same time and shut the business down during that time? Or will you take separate breaks and balance the workload accordingly? Once you know how you’ll manage everyone’s time off, you can start planning your actual break.

Don’t find excuses not to take a break

If you have to, book an actual trip that requires travel arrangements and accommodations. Book it early so you’ll see it on your calendar every week and feel less likely to cancel your break because it’s booked and paid for.

Let staff know what to expect

Will you be accepting calls and emails while on your break? Or will you only make exceptions for emergencies? Decide early on and designate someone to act on your behalf, if necessary, so that you can enjoy your vacation without work interruptions.

Communicate with clients

If you have clients that you deal with directly, let them know that you’ll be away from the office. Reassure them that your staff can take care of them, or that they are free to contact you after your break.

Visit Postcard Portables today to discuss your marketing and business needs.

Sal Di Franco and Stan Taylor of Postcard Portables Calgary have more than 40 years of combined experience in printing. They first met while working in sales for different print companies. Before long they realized that together they could take on a new and exciting challenge – entrepreneurship. In 2005 they opened their first business, a digital printing company, and hit the ground running.

Like many entrepreneurs, Sal and Stan are often on the lookout for new ideas, products, and opportunities related to their primary business. They learned of the potential for mini-billboard rentals from Jerred and Aubrey Huber and became franchisees in 2009. Sal says “We recognized Postcard Portables as a way to create a larger footprint in the market. The product is a great extension of what we were already offering and there were many evident synergies that would work in our favor.”

Not only was the product a great fit for their current business, Sal and Stan saw a clear gap in the market. “There were no portable signs with full-color graphics to be found in Calgary,” Sal remarked. “Based on our research, no one was taking advantage of this particular market segment.” Sal and Stan were drawn to the full-colour system. With their background in printing and the support of the franchise system, they knew that this opportunity would be easy to implement and that they could adapt quickly.

Sal identifies a major benefit of being a franchisee as the collaboration of all involved. He says “The franchisees and franchisors are a close knit group, with plenty of open, encouraging and insightful communication.” He appreciates the opportunity to ask questions and learn from the victories and mistakes of others. “Much of the ground work has already been laid” says Sal. Although, he is quick to note that hard work and dedication is still required for success.

When asked what advice Sal could share with those who are considering becoming a franchisee in any industry he responded “Do a lot of digging so that you can be absolutely sure of what you are getting into. Consider the internal as well as the external factors of your specific market. Be prepared to really WORK. Success is not something that just comes by chance, a lot of effort is required, so be sure that you are able to manage your time and resources effectively.”

If you are looking for help with your signage needs, contact Postcard Portables Calgary by phone at 403-971-2525 or email them at calgarysales@postcardportables.com

Billboards have always been a great way to reach out to people as they drive, cycle, or walk through a neighbourhood. They’re large, eye-catching, and leave a lasting impression. However, a traditional billboard is stationary, very expensive, and inaccessible for many organizations. Postcard Portables’ mini-billboards solve these dilemmas.

AFFORDABLE & EFFECTIVE

Our unique product offers the advantages of a traditional billboard, without its restraints. It’s a sign for our times, because it offers cost-effective advertising and flexibility in a fast-paced, competitive world.

Customers rent their mini-billboard to avoid unnecessary capital costs. They still benefit from 24 hour, 7 day a week exposure like a traditional billboard, but they rent a mini-billboard at a fraction of the cost. Customers can also change up their marketing message when necessary, as the entire process from consultation to installation usually happens within 5 to 7 days.

POWERFUL GRAPHICS . . .FAST!

Our mini-billboards pack a punch, despite their smaller size. They offer full colour, double-sided graphics with plenty of space for the customer’s message. After a client consultation, Postcard Portables designs, produces, and installs the mini-billboard, and obtains a permit for the installation too.

Our mini-billboards travel well and they are also extremely durable. They resist strong winds, pelting rain, low temperatures, and UV damage. Depending on the local bylaws, customers can choose from either a 4′ x 8′ or a 5′ x 10′ Original Mini-Billboard, or the smaller 4′ x 4′ Junior Mini-Billboard, if space is an issue.

We service many large, high profile clients including Tim Hortons, Safeway, Esso, Burger King, and more. However, the reasonable rental price makes mini-billboards an excellent option for small to mid-sized business, communities, politicians, educational institutions, and charities too.

VERSATILE & TRACKABLE

Our customers use mini-billboards for various marketing efforts. Here is a brief list of ways our mini-billboards could help you too:

Offer exclusive discounts and sales promotions
Advertise new products or services
Promote a grand opening, golf tournament, concert, festival, community markets, or other special events
Direct customers to your new location
Recruit employees
If you want to use analytics during your campaign, we can add a short, simple code to identify your campaign on your billboard such as “SUMMER2017”. You can then track the response through your website analytics.

OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE

At Postcard Portables, we don’t just design and rent signs. We offer customers an unparalleled level of attention from initial concept to on-site installation. We listen to your needs, offer suggestions, and create your marketing message.

Our exceptional in-house graphic design team and world class print facility create eye-catching, colourful mini-billboards that deliver results. Let us increase your traffic and sales, while you watch your business grow.

Our mini-billboard is just one example of our many innovative signage products. If you have an outdoor advertising need, Contact us – we’re happy to answer your questions and we provide no-obligation quotes.

If your organization wants massive exposure at a reasonable cost, we can help. Our large format banners take your advertising to new heights (and widths) to capture audience attention. They’re an advertising solution that’s almost impossible to ignore.

BIG IMPACT – REASONABLE COST

A big price tag often accompanies large format advertising, but our large format banners deliver the same wow factor, but at a much lower cost.

Your message appears in full-colour, and banners suit both indoor and outdoor applications. Banners also allow single or double-sided printing and can be hung vertically or horizontally to suit any location.

Our state-of-the-art printers can create your message up to 16′ by 50′ on a single piece of material. If you need a larger banner, we can combine pieces.

Here are just a few of the places our customers use large format banners:

• Sides of office and retail buildings, schools, warehouses, and buildings under construction
• Decorative and branded wall murals in stores, sports arenas, elevators, and lobbies
• Canopies for events and buildings
• Fences
• Bridge Overpasses
• Construction & Presentation Trailers

IDEA TO FINISHED PRODUCT QUICKLY

Customers often come to us with an idea, and ask us to make it a reality. If you do not have a design, our talented graphic design team can create one for you at little to no additional charge.

Once we have design approval, it normally takes no more than 4 days to complete your banner. Most banners have grommets for easy installation using string or bungee cords, but we’re happy to assist you with installation if needed.

PORTABLE, DURABLE & VERSATILE

Banners are extremely durable and lightweight. All our banners are weather and tear resistant, and when handled properly they provide a very good return on your investment as you can use them many times.

We offer a variety of vinyl substrates suitable for light indoor use up to the most gruelling outdoor applications. Long-lasting, exterior-rated ink and ‘wind-holes’ cut into the outdoor banner (when needed) prevents excess strain and damage. If wind is a prominent factor, we also offer full-colour mesh banners.

Many customers find large format banners the ideal vehicle for their needs. Here are a few ways our large banners could help you too:

• Grand openings
• Rental enquiries
• Temporary signage for construction projects
• Point-of-purchase displays in retail outlets
• Sponsor recognition
• Sales or specials
• Arts events such as museum exhibits, art gallery exhibits, movie posters, festivals, and theater or concert
• performances
• Conventions
• Sporting events
• Contests
• Brand promotion
• Trade show booths
• Directional signage for new location or development
• Celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, homecomings, engagements, parades, and weddings
• Staff recruitment
• Cautionary signs

UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER ATTENTION,

At Postcard Portables we offer you an unparalleled level of attention from initial concept through to completion. Our large format banner is just one example of how we can help you succeed, without breaking the bank.

We’re local and approachable, so please contact us – we’re happy to answer your questions and we provide no-obligation quotes.

IF YOU WANT PROFESSIONAL, COMPELLING GRAPHICS IN A COMPACT FORMAT, POSTCARD PORTABLES’ SMALL FORMAT BANNERS ARE A GREAT SOLUTION. THEY’RE VERSATILE, HIGH QUALITY, AND VERY AFFORDABLE.

VIBRANT COLOURS – EXCEPTIONAL DETAIL

Today’s vinyl banners offer full-colour, digitally printed graphics with exceptional clarity. You have complete control of the entire banner design, so you’re only limited by your creativity.

They’re suitable for text and images, can be printed single or double-sided and hung either vertically or horizontally. They’re ideal if you have limited space, and they work well in both indoor and outdoor applications.

GOOD RETURN ON INVESTMENT

Vinyl banners are an attractive option for business, because they are very durable. They’re tear resistant, weather resistant, and reusable when handled properly.

Our variety of vinyl substrates make it possible for us to create banners suitable for light indoor use as well as continual outdoor displays in harsh conditions. We also offer full-colour mesh banners when wind is a concern.

SMALL SPACES – BIG IMPACT

We’re bombarded by so many messages today and cost is always a consideration. A small banner is often a superior choice when you don’t want to create unnecessary visual clutter, when you want to minimize costs, or where space is an issue. Our smallest banner is 2′ x 4′, but it carries a hefty punch. Here are just a few of the places our customers use small format banners:

• Street poles, lampposts, or between trees
• Store fronts
• Sides of office and retail buildings, schools, warehouses, and buildings under construction
• Fences & gates
• Interior walls in stores, restaurants, offices, sports arenas, elevators, and lobbies
• Windows

QUICK RESULTS

We’ll take your concept and create a “proof” for you to review. If you do not have a design, our talented graphic design team can create one for you at little to no additional charge.

Once we have design approval, it normally takes no more than 4 days to complete your banner. Most banners have grommets for easy installation using string or bungee cords, but we’re happy to assist you with installation if needed.

Many customers find small format banners the ideal vehicle for their needs. Here are a few ways our small banners could help you too:

• Point-of-purchase displays in retail outlets
• Restaurant specials or take out items
• Educational displays
• Brand promotion
• Grand openings
• Arts events such as museum exhibits, art gallery exhibits, movie posters, festivals, and theater or concert
• performances
• Sporting events
• Directional signage
• Trade show booths
• Celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, homecomings, engagements, parades, and weddings
• Cautionary signs

UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER ATTENTION

At Postcard Portables we offer you an unparalleled level of attention from initial concept through to completion. Our small format banner is just one example of how we can help you succeed, even when you have limited space and a limited budget.

We’re local and approachable, so please contact us – we’re happy to answer your questions and we provide no-obligation quotes.

Vinyl banners and retractable pull up stands are the perfect combination for advertising on the move. The combination delivers top-notch graphics, versatility, and mobility for a very reasonable cost.

OUR QUALITY VINYL BANNERS

Postcard Portables’ digitally printed vinyl banners make it easy to deliver your message in vibrant, accurate colour. They’re also very affordable, especially if you buy an upgraded banner stand which allows you to change the banner when needed.

We’re happy to bring your idea to life, or assist you with a design. You have complete control of the entire banner design, and you have plenty of space. A standard banner for a retractable stand measures 33″ wide by 81″ long, but we offer custom banners and stands to suit any budget. Each stand includes one banner, making the combination even more attractive.

EASY ASSEMBLY

Well-designed retractable stands utilizing vinyl banners make setup and tear down a breeze. The retractable system allows you to pull your banner upwards from the base, slot a 3-piece pole into place and boom, you’re done. The sturdy base and pole holds the banner firmly so it does not swing or sag, and both the banner and stand are extremely durable.

COMPACT & PORTABLE

Banner stands do not take up much floor space, so they suit tight areas. Whether you’re displaying your banner in a hall, classroom, or office, they offer a minimal footprint and dramatic vertical exposure.

Pull up stands and vinyl banners are easy to store at the office, in your vehicle, or if you fly. Some models vary, but overall, lightweight banners fold easily and stand components fit into the convenient storage bag provided with each unit. The lightweight stand and banner stay together in the bag, and it’s easy to transport.

EXCELLENT ROI

When you buy a retractable pull up banner stand, you can use it repeatedly. Vinyl banners are also very durable, tear resistant, and reusable when handled properly.

Upgraded banner stands allow you to change your message, just by swapping out the banner. Postcard Portables can usually complete your new banner in just a few days after design approval.

Here are a few of the places our customers use pull up stands and vinyl banners:

• Trade shows & exhibitions
• Sales presentations
• Mobile corporate presentations
• Mobile educational displays
• Travelling exhibits, festivals, and performances
• Retail promotions & sales
• Daily, weekly, or seasonal restaurant specials
• Sidewalk signs

UNPARALLELED CUSTOMER ATTENTION

At Postcard Portables, we offer you an unparalleled level of attention from initial concept through to completion. Our vinyl banners and retractable pull up stands are just one example of how we can help you succeed, even when you have limited space and a limited budget.

We’re local and approachable, so please contact us – we’re happy to answer your questions and we provide no-obligation quotes.

OUR CUSTOMERS KNOW POSTCARD PORTABLES BEST FOR OUR INNOVATIVE MINI-BILLBOARDS AND SIGNAGE PRODUCTS, BUT WE OFFER MUCH MORE. OUR SMALL FORMAT PRINT SOLUTIONS SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY, BECAUSE YOU ACCESS WHAT YOU NEED UNDER ONE ROOF.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF POSTCARD PORTABLES’ SMALL FORMAT PRINT SOLUTIONS TO HELP YOU STRENGTHEN YOUR BRAND AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS.

MEMORABLE BUSINESS CARDS

Printed business cards remain a key player in business marketing. They’re cost-effective, easy to distribute, and a simple way to create a lasting impression.

Today’s business cards offer innovation. Besides essentials such as your company name, logo and contact information, business cards from Postcard Portables can include eye-catching, memorable extras. We offer full colour embossed and debossed cards, metallic text, cut corners, and translucency. You can also print double-sided if you want to add useful information such as a map or brand specific enticements.

The turnaround time on business cards is very quick and since they’re so affordable, hand them out freely for maximum exposure.

BRANDED LETTERHEAD & ENVELOPES

Letterhead is an essential part of corporate identity. Whether you decide to include all contact information or use a simple version with just your company name and logo, letterhead provides instant brand recognition and legitimacy.

If you already have your brand identity, we’ll match your letterhead to your corporate colours. If you’re just starting out, our graphic design team can create an image for you.

Postcard Portables offers single sheet and bound letterhead pads, and printed envelopes in many sizes for all your business needs.

FULL COLOUR FLYERS/BROCHURES
Flyers and brochures are an excellent way to share important business information with potential customers and to let existing customers know about additional products and services.

Postcard Portables offers full colour, double-sided printing and many attractive fold options to create striking designs. They are very cost-effective, especially when printing high volumes. They work well in counter and wall racks, when added to mailed correspondence, or for sales reps when they’re meeting potential clients. Brochures and flyers are also effective tools for targeted direct mail campaigns.

Our in-house graphic design team can create an impressive flyer or brochure to satisfy your advertising needs and budget.

At Postcard Portables, we don’t just design and rent signs. We offer consistent branding and printed business solutions for all your needs. Let us help you increase your traffic and sales, while you watch your business grow.

If you have questions, please contact us. We have innovative, affordable solutions and provide no-obligation quotes.

SOMETIMES LOCAL BUSINESSES BELIEVE ADVERTISING IS BEYOND THEIR BUDGET. THIS IS UNFORTUNATE, BECAUSE EFFECTIVE ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS AND AFFORDABILITY AREN’T MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE.
POSTCARD PORTABLES OFFERS MANY PRODUCTS TO INCREASE REACH AND BUILD YOUR BRAND, WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK. HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF OUR INNOVATIVE SMALL FORMAT PRINT SOLUTIONS YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER.

POSTERS

Bold, full colour posters are an excellent way to create brand awareness. Posters suit indoor areas such as waiting rooms, elevators, bulletin boards, and windows and they’re easily laminated for extended use. We can print posters to fit standard frames too if you want a polished, professional display.

POSTCARDS

Instead of sending out direct mail letters, why not try postcards? The unusual format is sure to grab the reader’s attention. They’re also double-sided, so you have plenty of room to deliver your message. Use them to generate leads, reconnect with past clients, or announce new products, services, or events.

GREETING CARDS

Who can resist reading a greeting card? They’re friendly, attractive, and colourful and the ultimate small format print solution for businesses on a budget.

Add a photo related to your business, and your message within, or create your own greeting card line and sell them in your retail outlet.

DOOR HANGERS

Door hangers are powerful promotional tools, but often overlooked. They’re not just for hotel room doors. Distribute door hangers locally to promote a sale or as an invitation to an event such as a grand opening. Include a coupon on a door hanger to entice potential clients to your brick and mortar store.

TENT CARDS

These small freestanding tabletop printed cards work well in restaurants, on a business counter, a board room table, or at any special event. Postcard Portables prints full colour, double-sided tent cards with complete design freedom.

TEAR CARDS

Tear cards pull apart, so they’re ideal for coupons. You can also create a tear card with a pull away business card, frequent shopper card, or appointment card. They’re especially beneficial because people see your brand and promotional message twice.

CAR MAGNETS

Do you or your employees travel for work? Why not take advantage of the captive audience behind the wheel? Postcard Portables creates custom car magnets to match your brand and vehicle colour. They’re easily swapped to another vehicle and made to withstand inclement weather.

WINDOW CLINGS

Postcard Portables offers single and double-sided window clings to display your business hours, prices, sales, specials, or recurring events. They’re affordable, reusable and made to last.

At Postcard Portables, we don’t just design and rent signs. We offer consistent branding and printed business solutions and for all your needs. Let us help you increase your traffic and sales, while you watch your business grow.

If you have questions, please contact us. We have innovative, affordable solutions and provide no-obligation quotes.

BUILDING BRAND RECOGNITION REQUIRES DILIGENCE. HOWEVER, MANY COMPANIES EXHAUST TRADITIONAL ADVERTISING OPTIONS AND STRUGGLE TO ATTRACT NEW CLIENTS.
FORTUNATELY, POSTCARD PORTABLES OFFERS MANY INNOVATIVE SMALL FORMAT PRINT SOLUTIONS TO AUGMENT YOUR CURRENT ADVERTISING, INCREASE YOUR REACH, OR BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO A TIRED CAMPAIGN.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW NOVEL ADVERTISING FORMATS TO CONSIDER FOR BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUCCESS.

AFFORDABLE NOTEPADS

Notepads offer a very affordable way to reinforce your brand, repeatedly. Postcard Portables prints 20 and 50 sheet bound notepads, so every time a potential or existing customer writes a new note, they’re reminded of your business. They also have a mysterious habit of traveling to unintended people, to further strengthen your brand and increase reach.

Postcard Portables offers coloured stock and design freedom, including watermarked backgrounds suitable for your company logo or tagline. They’re so affordable you can leave them on the front counter, take them to trade shows, or supply your sales people with notepads when they travel.

COMPANY POCKET FOLDERS

Pocket folders offer an excellent way to organize single-sheet documents and reinforce your brand. If you change your products or services, just insert a revised sheet instead of reprinting a large document.

Pocket folders work well for presentations or marketing packages to provide detailed information. Postcard Portables offers full colour printing and a variety of folder styles and colours to suit your business needs.

VERSATILE LABELS

Labels are another simple, inexpensive way to establish and strengthen your brand. Use them for packaging, promotions, events, or special occasions.

Add a bar code, list product ingredients, provide your logo and return address, or make people smile. We offer a quick turnaround, and many sizes and colours. Print thousands for a very small investment.

PERSONALIZED CALENDARS

Personalized calendars deliver for an entire year. They’re always in sight so many people access your brand. Hand them out as gifts before the New Year, or customize them and sell them in your retail store.

The Postcard Portables talented graphic design team can add specific products, photos of personnel, or an attractive, high-resolution image to capture people’s attention. We offer full colour printing and a variety of calendar styles.

At Postcard Portables, we don’t just design and rent signs. We offer consistent branding and printed business solutions and for all your needs. Let us help you increase your traffic and sales, while you watch your business grow.

If you have questions, please contact us. We have innovative, affordable solutions and provide no-obligation quotes.