Custom Umbrellas
By definition, an umbrella is a device that keeps an individual from getting soaked in a rain storm, or helps them stay sheltered from the sun's powerful U.V. rays during a bright summer's day. It is usually made up of a cloth screen attached to a retractable frame, and is expanded or contracted on an as-needed basis. But an umbrella can be much more than just a protective instrument. It can also be a powerful marketing tool for your company.
These days, there are a great deal of companies that produce custom umbrellas for corporations or other organizations. These umbrellas feature the business's logo prominently either on one side of the cloth canopy or, usually for an additional fee, on both sides. Some companies, including ProMo COLORS of Peachtree City, Georgia, even provide custom umbrellas in which the entire cloth screen is covered by the requested design, either in one solid part or in what is referred to as a "duo style" split-canopy design.
Different companies also offer different types of custom umbrellas. In addition to standard-style umbrellas, selected companies also offer logo golf umbrellas, double-canopy models, oversized cloth screen umbrellas -- even self-opening models, patio umbrellas and umbrella hats (a favorite among youngsters). Costs vary based on the model type as well as the company producing it, though some models starts as low as $3 per unit. Minimum quantity orders of about two dozen or more are usually required.
What makes a custom umbrella such an attractive advertising tool?
For one thing, as mentioned earlier, is the fact that the umbrella is a useful and arguably essential tool. People want them. They use them. They go out of their way to make sure that they have the umbrella with them, or at least easily accessible, should the need arise. That means that they will be in frequent contact with the device, and by association, your company's logo. Every time they don't want to get wet, they will be reminded of your company.
The second reason that the custom umbrella is such an effective marketing device ties into the first. Because people need umbrellas, a company that makes them readily available will be earning a customer's goodwill -- and, with luck, his or her repeat business. Umbrella giveaways, though initially expensive, could wind up paying off financially in the end, as long as an acceptable percentage of the people who take said umbrellas return to the store intending to spend.
Additionally, free custom umbrella giveaways can be and often are tied in to other promotions, such as credit card sign-up campaigns or customer evaluation requests. Studies show that customers are more likely to participate in a events such as these if there is a suitable reward for the time and energy they are asked to invest. Umbrellas certainly would fit the bill.