In a world where every retailer is competing for digital attention, print marketing stands out more than ever, especially when it’s done creatively.
And no, we’re not just talking about flyers.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly, high-impact ways to turn window-shoppers into buyers, let us introduce two of the most underrated tools in your marketing kit:
You’ve seen them. You’ve used them. But are you fully leveraging their potential?
This guide shows you how to turn these everyday print formats into powerful, brand-building, traffic-driving assets, whether you run a boutique, bookstore, salon, or pop-up shop.
Why Posters & Bookmarks Still Work in 2025
Let’s bust a myth: print isn’t dead. It just got smarter.
According to a 2024 study by the Direct Marketing Association, print materials like posters and postcards have a higher brand recall rate (70%) than digital ads (44%), especially when used in physical retail settings.
Why? Because they create a tangible connection. They interrupt routines. And when designed with intention, they become part of the customer experience—not just background noise.
Posters That Sell Without Saying a Word
Think of posters as your in-store billboards. They’re more than just announcements, they’re visual persuasion.
Where to use them:
- Window displays: Announce a sale, event, or new collection
- Changing rooms: Showcase reviews, styling tips, or promo QR codes
- Product walls: Highlight bestsellers or feature customer testimonials
- Checkout counters: Promote loyalty programs or upsell gift cards
Creative Ideas:
- Use bold typography with humor or surprise (e.g., “This poster wants you to try on that jacket.”)
- Feature user-generated content: Print customer photos or quotes
- Tie into local events or seasons (e.g., “Fall Finds Worth Falling For”)
Need inspiration?
🔗 99Designs – Eye-Catching Poster Design Ideas
Posters are also a great vehicle for QR codes. Link to:
- Product collections
- Promo landing pages
- Review platforms
- Event RSVPs
Bookmarks That Go Beyond Books
You don’t have to be a bookstore to use bookmarks effectively.
In fact, they’re one of the most versatile tools for low-cost, high-retention brand exposure.
Great for:
- Bag stuffers at checkout
- Inserts in mailed packages
- Event giveaways
- Loyalty reward freebies
- Collaborations with other local businesses
What to include on a bookmark:
- A product tip or how-to
- A short inspirational quote or seasonal message
- A QR code with a time-sensitive offer
- Your brand mission, story, or a customer review
Example: A skincare brand could hand out bookmarks that say:
“Glow tip #1: Drink more water (and don’t forget SPF). Scan for 15% off our fall essentials.”
They’re easy to collect, fun to share, and much harder to throw away than a coupon flyer.
Bonus idea: Partner with a nearby coffee shop or bookstore. They give your bookmarks away, and you cross-promote their next event in-store.
🔗 Related: How Bookmarks Can Boost Your Brand Promotions This Spring
Poster + Bookmark Campaign Ideas (That Actually Work)
Want to get even more from your print? Pair posters and bookmarks into one smart, unified campaign.
Campaign Example 1: “Read & Redeem”
For bookshops, lifestyle boutiques, or coffee shops
- Display a poster featuring a QR code: “Free treat with any $25 purchase”
- Include a matching bookmark with every bag
- Bookmark includes: quote, QR code, and a follow-up CTA (“Tag us if you loved this read!”)
Campaign Example 2: “Your Next Favorite Thing”
For salons, spas, fashion retailers
- Poster: “This season’s glow-up starts here” with service menu or product bundle
- Bookmark: Tips for self-care, product guide, or customer testimonial with CTA
Campaign Example 3: “Holiday Prep Kit”
For gifting season promos
- Poster with a checklist: “What to get for everyone on your list”
- Bookmarks as part of packaging: include gift ideas or thank-you messages
🔗 Related: Print Add-Ons That Boost Brand Loyalty
How to Design Them (Without a Designer)
Don’t have a creative team? No problem.
Use easy design tools like:
- Canva – Free poster and bookmark templates
- Adobe Express – More control, great for brand kits
- Fotor – Fast mockups for events
Then upload your final file to Overnight Prints and get them printed and shipped fast.
Pro tip: you can also use our differents templates!
Final Thoughts: Don’t Sleep on the Simple Stuff
In a world obsessed with trends and tech, it’s often the tangible, unexpected, and human experiences that leave the biggest impression.
Posters grab attention.
Bookmarks build loyalty.
Together? They create a retail experience that customers remember.
👉 Start designing your custom posters and bookmarks today, and watch your local brand presence grow.
Fast shipping. Professional finish. Big impact, small investment.
