Fusion Marketing A fun and inexpensive way to make a profit

What used to be referred to as a "tie-in", today is now known as fusion marketing. No longer competing but instead embracing the advantage of cooperation, fusion marketing has become one of the most inexpensive and effective methods of marketing. By collaborating with an establishment or business that is different from yours yet shares a similar target market, you will increase your marketing exposure for an extremely reduced cost. Using simple, affordable ways to send traffic to one another your business could achieve levels you never thought possible.

How can fusion marketing work for you? Allow the following scenario to serve as an example of how you can easily generate an inexpensive fusion marketing campaign.

Scenario: A new bread company opens up in an affluent suburban area. They want to make an awareness splash in the community ultimately driving customers to their establishment. Having a tight budget they are willing to give fusion marketing a try so they follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Survey the area. Begin looking at other businesses in the vicinity. Are there any nearby businesses that serve the same type of consumer? Take a stroll by neighboring businesses, contact the chamber, network with vendors and suppliers, or use a search engine to find fusion partners.

Step 2: Create a partnership. Invite local business owners to an invitation only bread tasting party. While serving delicious breads make introductions while offering to collaborate. Be sure to discuss how fusion marketing is a win-win for everyone because it does not force any major changes or modifications to their business.

Step 3: Create a promotion. Once a collaborator has been found, create a unique cross promotion. For instance, if you are partnering with the local coffee cafe you might want to plan a grand opening promotion that packages specialty bread with the coffee flavor of the day for a special price. Promote the grand opening and the partnership. Share mailing lists to notify customers and maximize your exposure. Create fliers for both establishments to announce the promotion. Display each others information on your website and include a reciprocal link. By producing pieces together you also share marketing expenses cutting the cost in half.

Step 4: Continue the partnership. After the grand opening promotion is complete continue driving traffic to each other's businesses. Use coupons, counter or window signs placed in each others establishments as a way to cross promote creating a win-win for everyone.

Fusion marketing requires a change in thinking, but it is a shift that can be fun, is inexpensive and can actually push your profits to the next level.

Learn more about this author, Michele Savoldi.
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