Welcome to the fast lane of automotive marketing! In an industry where innovation is constantly accelerating, print marketing remains a powerful tool for driving engagement, building brand loyalty, and fueling sales. Here are some of the latest trends shaping the landscape of print marketing in the automotive sector. From personalized direct mail campaigns to influencer marketing, here are some of the trends that are putting automotive brands in pole position for success.
Personalized Direct Mail
Automotive brands are utilizing customer data to create personalized direct mail campaigns, including customized offers, targeted messaging, and tailored content based on the recipient’s preferences and purchase history.
BMW used this mailer to deliver a special personalized offer to customers. The cover of the mailer features 3 die-cut windows. As you open the mailer, each of the cutouts spin to reveal each of the different offers. The inside of this self-mailer featured a letter to customers which was personalized with the recipient’s first name and a QR code they could scan to book an appointment.
High-Quality Brochures and Catalogs
Investing in well-designed and visually appealing brochures and catalogs that showcase the latest vehicle models, features, and special promotions. These printed materials provide tangible information and help potential customers make informed decisions.
Audi used this mailer to “show off” a new line of vehicles. When closed, the brochure is practically flat. When you pull out the tab, the piece virtually assembles itself into a circular dimensional showpiece that sits flat.
Interactive Print Ads
Incorporating interactive elements into print advertisements, such as QR codes, augmented reality (AR), or Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, to engage readers and drive them to digital content like virtual test drives, product demonstrations, or online configurators.
This custom stage pop-up folder was used by Ford Canada as a cool way to promote the new Fiesta. To take it a step further and bridge the gap between print and digital it incorporated a QR code. The Ford mobile website was immediately launched when scanned with a smart phone.
Limited Edition Print Collateral
Creating limited edition print materials, such as collector’s item brochures or exclusive event invitations, to create a sense of exclusivity and excitement among customers and prospects.
Audi used this LED light box to invite customers to an exclusive event where they could experience the launch of the E-Tron. This elegant box featured the iconic Audi logo spot coated on the cover while the inside featured details about the event. When the cover hinged open, the logo shone through with LED lights enhancing the customer experience.
Partnership Marketing
Collaborating with complementary brands or local businesses to co-create print marketing materials, such as co-branded brochures, postcards, or promotional flyers, to expand reach and tap into new customer segments.
Influencer Endorsements
Partnering with automotive influencers or industry experts to endorse print marketing materials, such as featuring testimonials, reviews, or endorsements in brochures, magazine ads, or promotional flyers, to enhance credibility and trustworthiness. Some of the most popular automotive influencers include Matthew McConaughey’s collaboration with Lincoln, Jennifer Lopez and Fiat, and Paul Hogan with Subaru. When Automakers Use Celebrities to Sell Cars
Emphasis on Luxury and Lifestyle
Positioning print marketing materials to emphasize the luxury and lifestyle aspects of automotive brands, showcasing premium features, sophisticated design elements, and aspirational imagery to evoke emotion and desire among target audiences.
Audi used this video in print brochure to promote the Audi A8 vehicle. The Video Mailer came inside a distinguished outer box mailer. With a simple, yet elegant, Center Reveal style Video brochure, recipients were invited to experience the technologies that make the Audi A8 a premier driving experience, in the comfort of their own homes. The sleekness of the design, including the all black exterior, represented the sleekness and sophistication that is associated with the Audi brand of vehicles.
Conclusion
Despite the digital revolution, the power of tangible marketing materials remains unmatched. From personalized direct mail campaigns to visually captivating brochures and catalogs, print marketing continues to play a pivotal role in engaging consumers, building brand loyalty, and driving sales in the automotive sector. As automotive brands navigate the ever-evolving marketing landscape, incorporating print strategies that resonate with modern consumers can help them stand out in a crowded marketplace and leave a lasting impression. By leveraging the tactile experience and storytelling potential of print, automotive marketers can forge meaningful connections with their audience and steer their brands towards continued success on and off the road.
automotive marketing