Media Sales Today

2012 may be the year of resurgence for electricity retailing. A recent survey finds that many consumers are still not aware that they can purchase electricity from a variety of providers but 88% like the idea. In states where competition exists, reps should contact marketing officials at firms doing business in their region and discuss ad campaigns.

As the new year progresses, consumers are getting the idea that any improvement in their personal financial situation will be gradual. At least one survey shows that the number of consumers who are very concerned about the economy has remained unchanged for nearly 3 years. But, they are growing tired of cutting their dining out budget and cooking at home. As consumers shift their habits, savvy marketers can increase market share.

Despite the recent high-profile cruise ship disaster that took place off the coast of Italy, consumers will still be looking to book passage to their favorite destination. The industry has changed somewhat as a result of the recession and this has implications for marketing. Service providers looking to fill cabins may embark on some new types of promotion in 2012.

Walgreens has had a falling out with pharmacy benefits management company, Express Scripts. Up to $5.3 billion in prescription drug sales is now in play as consumers seek new pharmacies. Reps need to drop by the local drug stores in their area to discuss the latest development in the prescription drug market and propose ad campaigns to help these operators bring new clients through the door.

At the Consumer Electronics Show last week, Nokia, along with partners, AT&T and Microsoft, announced the March 2012 rollout of Ace – a smart phone also known as Lumia 900. Industry analysts predict that the three partners will spend at least $100 million advertising this new smart phone. Reps need to check in with local retailers that carry AT&T and Microsoft products as well as smart phone sellers to discuss what’s happening in this market and to tap into some of these funds.

If there’s one thing the ongoing economic crisis has taught consumers, it’s the importance of emergency cash reserves. But it can be difficult for consumers to justify setting aside cash when so many routine expenses come their way. Some insurance companies have decided that the best way to sell life insurance is to promote the dual benefit of the whole-life or permanent plans – survivors get a payout as a death benefit and plan holders can tap the funds to cover cash emergencies.

Just when consumers thought they’d seen it all with respect to bells and whistles on their televisions, manufacturers are ready to sell something new. This year, large screen TVs with extra slim profiles will be lining store shelves. To move these products, both manufacturers and retailers will be rolling out new ad campaigns.