More than 50% of the world has access to the internet. In the states that figure rises to around 90%. With so many people accessing the internet on a daily basis, and ecommerce sales increasing, it is easy to forget that advertising exists offline too.

Digital marketing is commonplace these days and is used by any ecommerce business that wants to be successful. But, some important offline marketing strategies such as those offered by 3wh can also boost web traffic or increase customers walking through the doors of a business.

Although many, if not most, businesses have some form of online presence, it doesn’t mean that all businesses deal with ecommerce. There are plenty of localized businesses that focus firmly on getting customers into their stores or offices.

With this in mind, here are 7 ways that your business could use to promote itself that do not include the internet.

Magazine and newspaper advertising

With news and articles available within a few clicks, you may be surprised to know that some print publications are still performing well. According to the Alliance of Audited Media, there are many publications selling hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of copies of every issue.

If your business was specializing in an area that fits one of these publications then a print advert could be an effective way to target a specific audience.

Billboards

Arbitron performed a study that resulted in 2/3rd of the respondents stating that they remember seeing a billboard within the last month. 66% of people using public transport also said that they had noticed billboard advertising.

This could mean that billboards have relevance today still. However, to maximize promotional usage, the site must be carefully considered. Businesses have been known to rent billboards that are close to a rival’s store or offices. Sneaky but perhaps effective.

Custom neon signs

Neon holds a place in many people’s hearts due to its association with famous locations such as Las Vegas, and Piccadilly Circus. It has been used for creating highly visible signs for over 100 years, but it is not without its drawbacks. Neon strips are made from glass which can get hot and is also breakable. Care in positioning signs needs to be taken.

However, there is a way to get made to order custom neon signs that are flexible, safe, and eco-friendly. One way to promote your business may be to use a modern LED neon sign above your door, or as a street-facing sign. As it would be fitted to your business there will be no advertising or rent costs, plus they last for around 45,000 hours with continuous use.

Posters

Perhaps there is a limited chance of catching a bystander’s attention with a poster, but they can still have their uses. Bus stops and train stations have a captive audience and will very likely notice any advertising around them.

Posters can also be used to advertise limited sales, especially for a local business.

The Yellow Pages

Once the Yellow Pages was a highly popular way for finding a business. Quite often used for mechanics, plumbers, or emergencies, which was typified by some classic Yellow Pages TV adverts in the UK.

Nowadays, most people reach for their smartphones and use Google. However, there is still a certain number of people from older generations that prefer to not use the internet. Depending on what your business does, the Yellow Pages might be an affordable promotional tool.

Public transport

Much like posters in a train station, public transport has a captive audience, at least for the length of the journey. Taxis, buses, subways, and trains, all carry forms of advertising, and it is impossible not to notice it.

A business operating near a subway station could promote themselves on that line, and potentially grab a passenger’s interest. For instance, a bagel shop operating outside a station could advertise their early morning deals on the subway, and hungry passengers might see the sign and visit the shop.

Sporting events

Advertising on sports kits and within the grounds has been occurring for some time. If the club is big then the cost of advertising is likely to match and could be unaffordable for your business. But, a local business could help to sponsor a neighborhood team and get some good PR as well as having their business name seen at every event.

Also, every time the local newspaper reports on that time and a photo appears, your business name will be shown or mentioned.

Summary

To be successful it is important to know how to do authentic, effective marketing, and sometimes that means offline. The internet is the most powerful marketing tool there is, however, there are still many offline options a business can use.

For a truly local business such as a restaurant, bar, or even a flower shop, a colorful, custom neon sign might be as effective at making your business noticed, as a digital marketing campaign.