Promotional Ideas For Back-to-School

The Back-to-School Season is popular among many retail stores – particularly stores that sell clothing, electronics, school supplies –almost any item that can be used in a classroom.

Total back-to-school and back-to-college spending will reach over $72.5 billion, according to the National Retail Federation.

Time Frame:  The start dates for public schools vary from mid-August to early September. You should plan your event to start about two months before the first day of school.  Many states have special tax-free weekend shopping dates.

Retail Stores: Building traffic is a must for retail stores to have a successful selling season.

Many stores have a contest or sweepstakes.  One of the most popular is the Giant Crayon Sweepstakes.  This program is self-contained and has everything that a retail store will need for a successful Back-to-School promotion:  entry forms, an entry box, posters, a promotional idea book with press releases, and a 6′ or 8′ Giant Crayon with toys and school supplies and the latest toys.

This program is perfect for banks or other financial institutions, restaurants, grocery stores, automobile dealerships, rent-to-own stores, radio stations, newspapers, churches, or other non-profit organizations –any retail location where you want to attract kids or their parents!

Not Just for Retail: Even businesses that don’t typically attract a back-to-school crowd can get in on the promotion.

Churches and non-profits can put together back-to-school supply packets that can be donated directly to schools or children in financial need.

Other businesses can giveaway promotional items such as rulers, crayons, or other items imprinted with a business name or message. Backpacks, coloring books with safety messages, and other items make lasting impressions with both the children and their parents.   More back-to-school promotional ideas are available at Bagwell Promotions.

For promotional ideas for other events, including Halloween and Christmas, see our Promotional, Marketing, and Event Calendar.