Glossy vs Plain Paper Coupons

Jim Hutchinson

I am doing an offline marketing campaign for my wife's cleaning business and making some coupons with a bright yellow background and red & black ink. They print about 5 inches wide and 2 inches tall.

Normally we print these on plain white paper, but I am testing the results with glossy photo paper.

One lady I asked said she is used to plain paper and really never paid attention to the different types.

So I ask you, the members here, if you had a choice between 2 identical coupons, 1 on plain paper and 1 on glossy paper, which one would you be more attracted to and why?

NewMom0208 · Joined: 15 May 2008 Posts: 51 Location: Miramar, FL

Well, being environmentally friendly I prefer plain because it can be easier to recycle. But that is just me.

Just make sure it doesn't look like the typicall cell phone/health plan ad that is too busy and everybody hates getting them on their cars.

Jim Hutchinson

The coupon is being used in a craigslist ad and can be seen here:
http://omaha.craigslist.org/biz/863068250.html

Thanks

NewMom0208 · Joined: 15 May 2008 Posts: 51 Location: Miramar, FL

Jim,

I asked the friend who makes the graphics for me (he is currently working on my logo)

This is his feedback
Depending on how many you print consider a printing service, for large volumes it is usually cheaper and they would cover any damaged printing.

...Coupons are usually non-glossy...

What is your method of distribution? Insert on coupons mailing, direct handling? He can give more advise depending on this.

In general, he recommends reconsidering the colors and the word positioning. They are too loud, in his humble opinion and glossy can only make it worse.

If you like he will be happy to send you a complimentary (aka free)proposed coupon.

Jim Hutchinson · Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2008 5:43 pm Post subject:

NewMom0208 · Joined: 15 May 2008 Posts: 51 Location: Miramar, FL

Hi Jim,

I understand, please don't take it wrong. I should have choose my words more carefully.

It happens that coupons that are loud often get trashed faster. I receive offers for services at my job (as well as home) often and I dislike colors that are too bright. If you are targetting business, I'd encourage you to select a more professional, yet suggestive approach

I told my friend how you are always very helpful and how I wanted to return the favor. He helps me for free as well.

He is not trying to gain business (unless you want someting special done, of course)
He just sent me a powerpoint with 4 very likable coupons. Yes, he is fast. Very Happy

I can not send you the attachment via your comments page.
How can I get them to you? I think you'll like them and they are yours to use, change, and yes, even trash.

To your health!

Jim Hutchinson · Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2008 8:06 pm Post subject:

I appreciate you taking the time to help. Very Happy

Tell you what, go ahead and send me a note through the contact page so I can reach you via email. I prefer not to put my email address out here since I already get enough spam.

Thank you!

Jim Hutchinson · Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2008 11:27 pm Post subject:

I sent you an email Laura. Go ahead and reply with the PowerPoint attached. I truly appreciate your help!

Jim Hutchinson

Hi Paula

Thanks for sending those ads. Tell him he did a great job!
Now I just have to learn not to be so skeptic when someone offers ideas for improvement. Very Happy

I am thinking about using one of those and another one for residential cleaning on the Granny Clean website, which by the way, can use a face lift. That way visitors can print them right from the website. Maybe I could even get one listed on CouponBug.com.