ClickZ Gifting Newsletter - 10.31.2024

Shoptalk Fall insights and holiday spending set to hit $902 per person

Author

Rachael Kennedy
October 31, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Editor’s Pick 👑 

Couldn’t make it to Chicago for Shoptalk Fall? In this post, Jamie Bolton gives us a rundown of the key trends and strategies brands are betting on in Fall 2024:

🔑 Invest in Brand: Investing in brand has never been more important. Full-funnel strategies on Paid Social are now crucial, allowing brands to both build awareness and drive conversions in-platform. As Kyle Leahy from Glossier puts it, “People want to be part of something bigger.”

🛍️ Go Omni for Growth: As D2C growth hits limits, embracing an omni-channel sales approach is key to staying resilient. Brands like Solo Stove and Chinese Laundry are leading with strategies that don’t replicate D2C on third-party retail, finding unique advantages in each.

✈️ Go Global: With lower CPMs and wide-open markets, the EU offers significant growth opportunities. Effective localization strategies are essential for US brands looking to expand abroad.

For a deeper dive, check out the full post here!

Perfect Picks 🎁

Homegrown furniture brand Cellini and eco-conscious homeware company Base Piece have joiuned forces to offer a blend of sustainable gifts and experiences this Christmas. Base Piece’s use of recycled clay and materials in its ceramics and glassware showcases uits commitment to reducing environmental impact - in alignment with Cellini’s own dedication to responsible sourcing and mindful consumption.

Beyond sustainable gifting, the two businesses will also offer customers a unique festive experience. In collaboration with Mente Floreale, they will host a floral arrangement and styling workshop.

Corporate gifts can significantly enhance word-of-mouth (WOM) marketing, a powerful tool in the business world. WOM marketing relies on the organic sharing of positive experiences, where satisfied customers promote a brand through personal recommendations. This form of marketing is highly effective due to the trust people place in the opinions of friends and peers over traditional advertising. Corporate gifts, when thoughtfully designed and personalized, can stimulate WOM by creating memorable experiences that recipients are eager to share.

Corporate gifts can strengthen partnerships, deepen client relationships, and turn employees into brand advocates. For instance, a beautifully crafted plaque can symbolize shared achievements with partners, encouraging them to speak positively about the company. Personalized gifts for clients, such as custom calendars, show appreciation and attentiveness, making them more likely to recommend the brand. Employees, when recognized with thoughtful gifts, are motivated to promote the company within their social circles, enhancing brand visibility.

Moreover, corporate gifts can amplify reach through social media. Recipients often share their unique gifts online, generating user-generated content that serves as free advertising. This ripple effect increases brand visibility and can lead to new leads. Additionally, incorporating referral incentives with gifts can encourage clients to spread the word, further driving WOM marketing.

Holiday spending is set to reach a record $902 per person, driven by gifts for family and early shopping trends. Online shopping leads, with younger consumers favoring thrift stores. Gift cards top wish lists. The survey highlights a 25% increase from last year, reflecting consumer enthusiasm and preparedness.

Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Wooden Christmas Cookie Play Food Set

This article highlights a selection of Christmas-themed toys designed to engage children in the holiday spirit. From LEGO sets and plush toys to creative playsets, these products offer festive fun and decoration opportunities. They cater to various age groups, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable holiday experience for kids.

Just Got 2 Have It (JG2HI) is expanding and relocating its showrooms at AmericasMart Atlanta, enhancing collaboration between its Gift and Lifestyle divisions. This move is set to elevate the shopping experience for the upcoming winter market season.

The Gift Division will now be in showroom 1701, directly across from the Lifestyle Division in showroom 1700. Renovations are underway, promising a refreshed look by the winter 2025 Atlanta Market. This strategic relocation aims to offer greater value to buyers and foster a seamless shopping experience.

Performance Pulse 📈

Google Performance Max enhances eCommerce campaigns by utilizing multiple Google platforms, offering increased reach and automation. It provides an 18% conversion boost, real-time insights, and efficient ad targeting. Businesses should leverage audience segmentation and automated asset creation to optimize results, maximizing return on ad spend and campaign effectiveness.

Amazon Marketing Cloud (AMC) offers a suite of tools to enhance your campaigns. Use Amazon Ads for product visibility and create cost-per-click ads. AMC centralizes campaign management, providing near real-time metrics. For assistance, contact Amazon Ads; budget minimums apply. Cookies are used to improve services.

Every performance marketing campaign can incorporate brand elements to reinforce brand identity, while brand marketing efforts can successfully leverage performance metrics to refine messaging and engagement strategies - but getting the balance right is where the magic happens.

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