A list of alternative ways to use a business reply envelope
You are probably aware of the Royal Mail Response Service changes that took place in November 2013 but put it to the back of your mind when you realised you had until November of this year to use up the last of your old business reply envelope stock (which is what we did!)
With less than 3 months to go until old stock incurs surcharges or is wasted, it’s time to start thinking about how to use up the remaining business reply envelope in a proactive way…
Print voucher cards
Print voucher cards with a tear-off panel that have a discount or money off a next order. You could send them to customers who you haven’t heard from in a while or as a reward to new or regular customers.
Print questionnaires
Print questionnaires for your existing customers – ask them how they think you are doing, what new products or services they would like to see offered or what you could be doing better. A voucher card tear-offs could contain feedback forms as well. Remember that people will be taking time out of their day to fill this out so provide an incentive such as a little present in the post or a gift voucher.
Database update slips
If your client database is in need of an update, send out a quick-fill details slip asking for the details of the person(s) who would deal with orders on the company’s behalf. This is great way to make sure that your email marketing is being sent to the appropriate people.
Run a competition
Run a competition for your customers – the reply envelope could be used to return entries. For example customers could send a business card for entry, which then goes into a prize draw. This will get people engaging with your company and possibly remind them to re-order the stock that’s getting a bit low…
Send remittance advice
If your customers regularly pay by cheque or if they send a monthly remittance advice, send them a reply envelope with their invoice. This could encourage more timely payments or correspondence.
Request a call back
If you have purchased data for direct mailing e.g. new businesses in your local area, you could use the business reply for people to register their interest in your product or service for a call back.
The new business reply envelope specification involves a licence barcode and updated artwork can be created using a tool on the Royal Mail website. www.royalmail.com/response-services-artwork-generator/licence. Make sure that artwork meets the Royal Mail guidelines so that the envelopes can be read by the sorting machines.