In today’s day and age, everything is digital. Print copies of books, newspapers, advertising circulars and physical mail have primarily switched to their digital counterparts. In their place, we now have an abundance of digital mail while businesses back off commercial print. Today, we’re discussing print vs. digital circulars, and why grocers still rely on print to drive traffic—even amidst a world that has gone digital.
The main difference between print ad circulars and digital ad circulars is that the print variation is printed and delivered to homes in shared mail, whereas digital ad circulars are often sent via email and/or are posted on grocery store websites.
While this difference doesn’t seem major, it plays a huge role in how an ad circular is received, how well it works, who it’s visible to and how long the effects last.
Print ad circulars offer a hands-on experience and stronger brand recognition, ideal for consumers who might consider shopping at a grocery store based on certain deals aligning. Unlike digital ad circulars, this variation sticks around longer, resulting in more serious brand recall for a variety of consumer ages.
Digital ad circulars are great for offers and coupons that change frequently. Ideal for specific buyer demographics like age, proximity to certain grocery store locations, buying trends and more, the digital variation is quick and easy to use for business owners and managers alike.
Print circulars cover the places where digital circulars can’t reach, and vice versa. Print offers greater visibility, regardless of age and online presence. While digital offers better global visibility, print offers better local visibility. While digital is fleeting, print lasts longer. For grocers that want to remain top of mind, print circulars are the secret weapon.
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Print Circulars vs. Digital Ad Circulars |
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Print Circulars |
Digital Circulars |
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Time to Create |
3-7 days |
1-3 days |
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Time to Deliver |
7-10 days |
Instant |
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Reach |
Local |
Global |
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Visibility |
High |
Low |
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Age |
Everyone |
Younger audience |
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Benefits |
Brand recall, memory and local reach |
Personalized ads, immediate ROI tracking and low costs |
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Price |
Higher |
Lower |
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Lifespan |
Weeks to months |
Seconds to minutes |
When it comes to choosing print ad circulars or digital, the difference shouldn’t come down to print or digital. The best way to enhance your traffic in grocery stores is a combination of both print and digital. Ultimately, there shouldn’t be a choice between print circulars and digital circulars. Each option offers a unique value that isn’t fully offered independently.
Most grocery stores already have their digital advertisements covered, but if you’re searching for a commercial print partner to amplify your results, Signature Graphics has a blend of capabilities available to make campaigns easier. With a combination of design, print, assembly and delivery services, our goal is to make your print campaigns as efficient as possible while maintaining maximum quality. Ready to see how print circulars can help drive traffic?
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