Handing Out Old Catalogs: Is It Effective for Booths?

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores the effectiveness of distributing old Pampered Chef catalogs at booths, with participants sharing their experiences and strategies for utilizing leftover materials. The conversation includes various opinions on the value of old catalogs and methods for engaging potential customers.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, questions the effectiveness of handing out old catalogs, suggesting that people may prefer updated versions.
  • Another participant shares their experience that distributing old catalogs can help clear inventory while directing potential customers to their website for current catalogs.
  • Several users mention the importance of collecting contact information when giving out old catalogs to facilitate follow-up.
  • One participant notes that core products remain consistent across catalogs, making older versions still relevant for certain items.
  • Another participant suggests using old catalogs with a label indicating they are outdated, while promoting their website for current information.
  • Some participants express that using old catalogs is better than discarding them, with one stating they have successfully given away very old catalogs at events.
  • Another participant mentions using recipe cards alongside catalogs as a way to engage customers, as recipes are often kept.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the appropriateness of using old catalogs, with some participants advocating for their use while others express concern about their effectiveness. No clear consensus emerges on the age of catalogs that can still be considered useful.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from various events, including fairs and booths, discussing strategies for maximizing engagement and lead generation rather than immediate sales.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on utilizing leftover catalogs and engaging potential customers at events may find the shared experiences beneficial.

B
blueikaos
Messages
70
I have read on here about people handing out old catalogs when hosting a booth.
What is the point of this? Wouldn't people want a new up to date catalog?

I have 50 Summer catalogs left over (I joined the end of July and had all the extras come in my kit that I couldn't use).

When is it ok to hand out a Fall/Winter catalog?
 
blueikaos said:
I have read on here about people handing out old catalogs when hosting a booth.
What is the point of this? Wouldn't people want a new up to date catalog?

I have 50 Summer catalogs left over (I joined the end of July and had all the extras come in my kit that I couldn't use).

When is it ok to hand out a Fall/Winter catalog?
Click to expand...

The purpose of handing out the old catalogs is to get rid of them and then you can direct them to your website for the new updated catalog. Or, that's then a great opportunity moment to get their info to mail them the full sized one.

99% of the time, people want the catalog and then don't place orders and what not. So, there's no use giving out all your current ones since it won't pay off...especially if you don't get their contact info. The fortune is in the follow up. This is why it's smart to give the old, get their info and mail them the new one. Then FOLLOW UP! :)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
That makes sense Caressa.

I never thought about getting their info in that "sneaky" way. haha!

Thanks!
 
I like to drop mine off with a label asking to be contacted for a new one at md offices, salons, random places....anywhere I see reading material. :D

They're also good for using for your bridal showers....when guests can pluck an item off the bride's wishlist.
 
Yes... what Jolie and Caressa said... but also remember that the core PC products don't change that much. So if someone wants stoneware or an ice cream dipper, they will find it in any catalog.
 
Here's a question...how old is too old? I have some catalogs and minis from S/S '09. Should I just throw those away? Is it just too old?
 
Amanda, I say put an I'm old sticker on them and put them around. What's your other option... the landfill. It couldn't hurt. If someone is really interested, they will contact you or go to your website.
 
I should have specified that my question was in regards to doing a fair booth. Would those catalogs be too old?I could put one of my "this is old..." type of stickers on it and then talk to people and tell them about my website. They can fill out a Guest slip to give me their contact info and I can send them my newsletter. Or better yet, they can book a party with me and they can have a host packet to take with them (or I can mail it to them if they don't want to carry it around.)I do have some old S/S '10 ones, but just one pack and I have 2 booths (Sat. and Tues.) I also have some mini's and a lot of recipe cards. But should I bother with these older catalogs?
 
bumping..Do I use them? Just trying to see if I have enough supplies for my booths. If I shouldn't use these old catalogs, I could try to run around to my clustermates and buy some old cattys from them. Opinions?
 
Amanda, I'd say use them. I would take a few new ones to give to people who do actually book a show with you, but put a box or something out and let people take them. I've only done one booth, but my experience is that everyone wants something, but they aren't all going to book or order and it isn't worth worrying about giving an old catalog to someone who has no intention of booking anyways.
 
I'd say yes, use them! If someone places an order... most prices have not changed by more than $1 so it's not a biggie.
 
I put a neon colored label under my contact info label with this

* NOTICE *
Prices may have changed
Contact me for a current catalog


And if they are truly interested they will book and get an updated catalog.
 
I place a sticker over the season located on the upper right hand front cover that reads, 'shop online 24/7/365, Welcome To My Personal Web Site'. When I do this, hardly anyone asks about is this the most current catalogs. I just gave away about 50 spring/summer catalogs this weekend. For those who booked a show, I gave them a fall catalog.
 
Ditto on the old catalogs and asking for info to mail a new one. A lot of people at a fair will pick stuff up and then throw away or lay down somewhere so no use losing current catalogs like that, they are too expensive!
Another thing to do (I got this from Elite Seller Marie Snyder) get a binder and cut apart a current catalog. Put into the binder in page protectors. Then if people want to "See" a new catalog it won't walk off.
I always give away recipe cards w/ my info or mini catalogs with my info. I want them to get a recipe because no one throws away a recipe. The current mini doesn't have a recipe so I will be using old ones at my booth this weekend!
The object of a booth is getting leads and bookings not sales! Although sales are good too!
 
I am so glad that I found this thread..I was doing some cleaning yesterday and found about 30-40 SS2010 catalogs..just in time for my booth on Saturday.*
 
I had a few F/W 08 and F/W 09 that I gave out at Halloween. I knew that the return would be minimal (haven't heard from anyone yet) so I wasn't about to hand out new catalogs. My goal was to get rid of my old catalogs and the parents like receiving a treat too.
 
I just gave away 2007 catalogs today at my booth!
 
I have done two different poems on my old catalogs. One on regular sized address labels in the neon colors: "Seasons change, products do too! Go online to see what's new" (then had my web address). My name tag badge labels say "Though the date may be old, just look inside and you'll be sold! Many great products you will see. Have a party and get them FREE! Or you can make money by joining the Pampered Chef Family! I'd love to have you on my team. Call me for a new catalog or visit my website" and all my contact info.
 
I am doing a booth this weekend and I have old catalogs and will give a current
mini catalog along with it.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is handing out old Pampered Chef catalogs at booths effective for attracting customers?

Handing out old catalogs can be effective, but it depends on the context. While they may not feature the latest products, they can still showcase popular items and recipes that resonate with customers. Additionally, they can serve as a reminder of the brand and encourage potential customers to inquire about current offerings.

What should I consider when using old catalogs at my booth?

When using old catalogs, consider the relevance of the products featured. If many items are still available or if the recipes are timeless, they can still be valuable. Additionally, make sure to inform potential customers about any new products or changes that may not be reflected in the old catalog.

How can I enhance the effectiveness of old catalogs at my booth?

To enhance effectiveness, pair old catalogs with promotional materials that highlight new products, special offers, or upcoming events. You can also include a flyer or a business card with your contact information, encouraging customers to reach out for the latest updates and promotions.

Are there any downsides to handing out old catalogs?

Yes, there are potential downsides. Customers may become confused if they see products that are no longer available or if they expect to find new items that aren't featured. It's important to clarify that the catalog is outdated and to provide additional information about current offerings.

What alternative strategies can I use instead of old catalogs?

Instead of old catalogs, consider using digital catalogs or tablets to showcase the latest products. You can also create a newsletter sign-up sheet to keep interested customers informed about new products and promotions. Engaging demonstrations and samples can also draw in customers more effectively than printed materials alone.

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