Whistl launches local marketing service for SMEs

Whistl Doordrop Media has launched Leafletdrop, a new self-service digital platform aimed at SMEs.

The company said the service provides an easy-to-use leaflet advertising tool that enables all businesses to create and launch local marketing campaigns from their desktop.

Users can target local households, schedule distribution, organise print and pay online on the platform, which had a soft launch in Q1 2018 before being formally unveiled this week.

The platform delivers two distribution options. Users with print-ready artwork can upload this to the platform, choose their desired leaflet format and have the print and distribution sorted by Whistl. Alternatively, users can arrange distribution for their existing leaflets ready for a leaflet drop delivery to target households.

Doordrop Media said it works with an unspecified print management company to facilitate users’ print requirements, while the web service “has drawn attention from some printers seeking their own white label solutions, which we are accommodating”.

The platform is already being used by nearly 500 advertisers across numerous sectors, the company said, including estate agents, fitness, motor and transport, accommodation and travel, food and drink, retail, art and entertainment, education, home services and charity.

Doordrop Media managing director Mark Davies said: “Marketing can be a costly expense for SMEs, often being time-consuming and complex for new businesses.

“With Leafletdrop, business owners can launch a marketing campaign that is high impact and suits their budget from their desktop in minutes. Our dedicated team will then manage the campaign allowing owners to focus on other areas of their growing business.”

Leafletdrop is accessed online via a website and no downloads are required. The cost to use the service is dependent on the volume, format, paper weight and finish required but Doordrop Media said prices start from £560 for 7,500 leaflets with its distribution only service, or start at £715 with print and distribution.

As well as Doordrop Media, Whistl UK provides mail, parcel and fulfilment services in the UK and internationally, handling 3.8bn items a year. The company underwent a management buyout in 2015 from PostNL, which retains a 17.5% shareholding. Headquartered in Marlow, Whistl operates from six depots across the UK.