Female readers will probably be familiar with the 'gift with purchase' concept. It is often used in cosmetics and perfume retailing, usually based on a specified purchase value or purchasing of a particular product.

The 'gift with purchase' strategy is an effective way of increasing sales and profile for your brand or a particular product or service.

The concept is a simple one ... purchase this product and receive a gift. It can be used for special events (e.g. father's day, mother's day, easter) or for a range of industries - example:

• retailers - tradional users such as cosmetics and products such as computers
• travel/tourism - bus companies, travel agents, tour companies, hotels
• cafes and restaurants
• entertainment venues - movie theatres
• retail - jewellery, clothing etc
• real estate
• car sales
• B2B such as trade suppliers

There are key rules though, to using this strategy:

• Who
  • Who is your target ? Understand your market and their motivators.



• What
  • Have a purpose. Know what you want to achieve and allocate appropriate budget for your promotional gifts.
  • Review a range of promotional gift options. Take into consideration your recipients and align or theme with your own business. Also consider what you are asking of your customers .... Importantly, the gift with purchase, should have a perceived value*.

  * seek the help of a promotional product and gift company as they can recommend a range of products, secure the quantity you need and handle branding.

• Where
  • Consider the logistics. Is this a local or national campaign? How will you deliver or distribute.

• When
• Plan early, especially if quantities of gifts are large. Ordering well in advance, will ensure stock, time to align colours with your own branding, decoration ... and save money.


• Set the time-frame in line with your primary objective of your 'gift with purchase' campaign (e.g. are you trying to increase sales in a slow period, increase sales of a particular item or range or launching a new product). Add a start and end date to control the campaign to increase take up.


• Promote, promote, promote - use flyers, website and twitter, newsletters. Ensure you alert current clients and seek PR.

article by Thrive Promotional Products and Corporate Gifts - 2010 (copyright)

Thrive Promotional Products and Corporate Gifts would be delighted to discuss 'gift with purchase' ideas. Check out our promotional product catalogues  :: click here :: 

For an obligation free chat, please contact us on 02 9977 0215 or email immediately :: info@thrivepromotional.com.au ::