Catalogue Publications - Print or Digital (or Both)?

Written on the 29 October 2015 by VB Designs

Most businesses these days have an online presence, and many also continue to have a printed display in the form of catalogues, brochures, flyers and newsletters. Last year, catalogues alone reached almost 20 million Australians (19.7 million to be precise).   Making a decision about producing a new catalogue can be daunting but we're here to help VB Designs is your local specialists for Graphic Design Gold Coast and we're ready to help you stand out from the crowd!

According to the 2014/15 Australian Catalogue Association industry report, 77% of the Australian population read a catalogue once a month.  The surprising figure though is that most of us prefer to engage with catalogues the old fashioned way.  That's right, 70% of us would rather curl up on the couch with a coffee and a catalogue than go online to read the same information.

So is it worth moving your catalogue into a digital environment?  According to Australian marketing and communications company Salmat, it seems that although fewer people prefer to read catalogues online, when we do, 7 out of 10 of us will make a purchase as a result perhaps indicating that when we search an online catalogue, it's because we're looking for something rather than just a quick browse over a coffee.

In our view, it's not always print versus digital sometimes the best result comes from using the two mediums together in one cohesive strategy that promotes your business and gains maximum exposure.

If you want to ensure your print and online presence is connected and consistent, why not talk to us. All your design needs are in one place at VB Designs, graphic designers Gold Coast.  Consider this:

1. Online catalogues are cheap in comparison to print versions since there are no printing or delivery costs.
2. Online catalogues enable you to integrate your listings into your e-commerce platform so it's easy for your audience to read and purchase in the same browsing session.
3. Online catalogues let consumers view your catalogue when they're on the move, taking advantage of the massive shift to mobile browsing.
4. Turnaround is faster in the digital world. Products can be produced and delivered in days rather than weeks.
5. Online measurement is almost instantaneous through analytics and tracking tools that measure open rates, click-throughs and other data.
6. Digital Brochures can create an interactive experience, with addition of video, pop up windows and slideshows.

In a reversal of trend, some online brands are even reverting to print to improve engagement with consumers and access new sections of the market a high profile example being Airbnb, who last year launched a glossy magazine called Pineapple.

As usual, there's no advice that fits each and every business.  However, regardless of whether it's print, digital or both, one thing is certain catalogues are here to stay, and they are pushing consumers online, creating incoming leads and sales.

Our team can design your catalogue, and create an interactive digital publication as well as catalogue printing.

If you'd like to breathe new life into your catalogue, contact us at our graphic design Gold Coast studio and give us a call on 1300 732 217 for an obligation free quote.