4 Local Advertising Ideas For Retail Stores and Businesses

Investing in local advertising can prove to be a smart investment that results in more customers, sales and ultimately profits. As a retail store owner, you need to constantly promote your business through various platforms. It's no secret that retail stores rely on the sales from local customers; therefore, common sense should tell you that local advertising is the most effective. Here, we're going to reveal 4 local advertising ideas that's sure to give you the most bang for your buck.

#1 - Radio Commercials

Even with all of the technological advancements of satellite radio and MP3 players, most drivers still resort to their local radio stations. You can use this to your advantage by promoting your retail store on a radio commercial. Contact some of the various stations to request a report of their user base along with commercial rates and requirements. Ideally, you want to run a commercial on the radio station that your customers are most likely to listen to.

#2 - Mail Advertisements

You might be surprised to learn that placing flyers on mailboxes is illegal. Thousands of companies risk fines and even lawsuits for this type of promotion. A smarter method of advertising is through the local postal service. Most USPS offices have advertising options for small business owners to use. You can pay the office to have your flyer or advertisement sent out to a given area, which is a highly effective form of local marketing for retail stores. Either call or visit the USPS office in person to ask them about their mail advertising options.

#3 - Television Commercials

Of course, we can't talk about local advertising options without mentioning television commercials. As the old saying goes -- a picture is worth a thousand words -- holds true in retail marketing. As long as you have the capital and resources to create an launch a television commercial, this is definitely one avenue you shouldn't overlook. Not only will you receive direct sales from it, but you'll also increase your brand exposure, which is a huge benefit of television commercial advertising.

#4 - Sponsorship

Another local advertising idea that's frequently overlooked by store owners is sponsorships. Little league baseball and other kids' sporting events will display your store's logo in exchange for a donation. It's a win-win scenario that increases your store's exposure while helping out youth organizations. Call around to some of the youth sports organizations to see whether or not they are looking for sponsors.