Hello,

Happy New Year from everyone at The Ballantine Corporation!

We would like to welcome you to the January issue of our Sample of the Month Newsletter. This issue will feature a case study from our client Facts On File News Services and their test of a unique see through envelope package.

In an effort to introduce something new to our Sample of the Month Newsletter, from now on the featured package description will be an audio clip instead of text (more interactive and less to read). Please let us know what you think or report any problems by e-mailing us.

(What's next? Maybe streaming video...)

Facts On File News Services
See Through Envelope Package

Please Note: This package was designed
by Joe Favale of Shine Advertising.

The control piece of Facts On File News Services is a 12 page, 8-1/2 x 11 catalog sent to librarians in schools, public libraries and academic institutions.

In end of September 2005, they tested a unique see through envelope package containing a 3 panel, 4 color brochure and a small 2 color letter.

The strategy behind this mailing was to invite the recipient to celebrate Facts On File News Services' 65th Anniversary using a type of mailer that visually appeared special.

According to Mindy Hatton, Director of Sales & Circulation, "We tested this unique direct mail piece because we felt the special look of the mailer coincided well with our 65th Anniversary. After examining the ROI on this envelope mailer versus our catalog control, we will stick with our catalog for future campaigns.

My team and I concluded that, while the look of envelope mailer was successful in portraying our 65th Anniversary, it may have been too "over the top" for our audience. It proves that testing different mailers helps you further fine tune your direct marketing initiatives with each campaign."

How can you apply the information of this case study to your own direct marketing projects?

We are a full-service direct mail production company and can provide you with technical expertise, full project support and aggressive pricing. For more detailed information, please view our 3 minute presentation at: http://www.ballantine.com/benefits.html

We would also like to welcome New Hope Natural Media as the newest member of our family of clients.

Thank you for taking the time to read the January issue of our Sample of the Month Newsletter. If you have any questions or would like to give us feedback, please e-mail us.