Lob, the leading direct mail automation platform, unveiled a report on the State of Direct Mail Consumer Insights, in partnership with Comperemedia. The report surveyed 2,111 adult (aged 18+) consumers in the U.S. and uncovered consumers’ perception and attitudes towards direct mail and how brands communicate and engage their customers, revealing a strong preference for receiving physical mail. The survey found that over 85% of consumers regularly read direct mail received from brands either immediately, on the same day, or at a later time, with 62% reporting a direct mailpiece has inspired action.
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Building on the direct mail channel’s prominence in the marketing strategy mix, the survey found direct mail is critical to the acquisition and retention of customers, with almost half of consumers being introduced to new brands via direct mail. Sixty-six percent of consumers reported they are likely engaging with and act on direct mail from brands they already have a relationship with, proving direct mail is integral throughout the entire customer journey. Direct mail’s influence over the omnichannel is ever-present in the findings, with 51% of all consumers sharing direct mail with their friends and family. Additional findings include:
“Direct mail—a tried-and-true marketing channel—is experiencing a renaissance,” said Ritu Kapoor, CMO of Lob. “Our technology has been able to evolve snail mail into intelligent mail at scale, enabling leading brands to personalize, analyze, and deliver an unmatched omnichannel experience to their audiences. Our customers continue to find direct mail a leading channel in customer engagement, retention, and acquisition.”
The findings in the State of Direct Mail Consumer Insights Report prove intelligent direct mail that is connected, personalized, and measurable resonates with consumers. Today’s consumer has a positive reaction to their direct mail, so brands that bolster their omnichannel strategy and combine digital and physical channels, like images of recently purchased items and local events or locations, will drive more sales and more ROI. Intelligent direct mail that is customized, based on consumer behaviors and preferences, and contains relevant offers and promotions motivates consumers to read and take action, most often by visiting a brand’s website or physical store location.
This survey was nationally representative of U.S. consumers across gender, age, income, ethnicity and region. Among other questions, respondents were asked a series of questions around their preferences and satisfaction related to direct mail within four key sectors: Retail, Healthcare, Financial Services and Local Business.
The full survey results will also be announced on Lob’s 2022 State of Direct Mail: Consumer Insights webinar, which is scheduled for July 27, 2022 at 11 am PT. You can access the full survey results