When was the last time you were in a store and was attracted to a CD or DVD because it is a ‘collector’s edition’? Many movies or music get re-released often and a nice boost in sales thanks to different free gift with purchase items. If you are a band and selling CDs at shows, it attracts more fans and potential buyers if there are some ‘added perks’ to CDs.
iPod/cell phone skins
For the special edition of the release e=MC2 by Mariah Carey, a custom iPod skin matching the album cover was bundled with the CD, and the special edition sold 500,000 copies. While iPod skins are generally sold for around $10 a piece, when purchased in bulk for promotional purpose, they can be custom made for alot less. This is not only a great memorabilia item for fans to keep, it makes great economic sense as well – the iPod skin has a much greater perceived value than the actual cost. You may even raise the retail price to offset the cost of the free gift.
Compressed tees
The first 5000 DVD copies of the movie Paranormal Activity came with a compressed t-shirt in the shape of a DVD case. Compress tees is completely unique from start to finish. Starting with a t-shirt, your graphic is silkscreened onto it and then the tee is compressed under tremendous pressure into the solid custom shape of your choice. The actual cost of a compressed tee is about the same price as a silkscreen tee with 1 or 2 color imprint. Again the higher perceived value of the item will help bringing in more sales because customers’ thinking that they are getting a better deal by paying a little more with a free gift.
Check our special on compressed tees
Mp3 or video download card
If you or someone you know are web-savvy, this maybe an easy and effective way to entice CD or DVD sale. Include a unique download code on the CD/DVD packaging that will allow fans to to download b-sides, music video, interviews, trailers from your website. In the process you may also capture fans’ contact info. You may need help from your webmaster and a printer that can print unique codes on business-card type printed products.
Bumper stickers / stickers / temporary tattoos / magnets
If the previous items areout of your purchasing budget, the items here in this last category are for you. They have been quite successful and frequently used as added value for retail CD/DVD. The great thing is that they are light and can be inserted into any package. The key to success is a compelling, memorable and eye-catching design. Think of how many times you have seen the Apple sticker on the back of a car, a backpack, or a desk. They are extremely budget-friendly and fun for a larger audience.
Check our special on temporary tattoos
For more free gift with purchase ideas, check out our promotional items database, and let us know any past experiences you may have in the comment section below!
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