5 Reasons Why Brands Still Need Traditional Media to Increase Sales
Introduction
Denver’s business community is as vibrant and diverse as its residents. From local coffee shops to long-standing law firms, traditional marketing strategies still hold their ground alongside digital methods. While digital media dominates today’s marketing conversations, traditional media—TV, radio, and print—continues to play a crucial role in building trust, connecting with diverse audiences, and driving sales for local businesses.
For those working with a marketing agency in Denver, integrating traditional media into your marketing strategy can give your business the boost it needs. Let’s explore why traditional media remains vital for increasing sales.
1. Traditional Advertising Still Delivers Powerful Results
Imagine driving down I-25 in the morning and spotting a billboard for a local Denver brewery. By lunchtime, that same brewery is being discussed on KOA NewsRadio. This is the power of traditional media—it surrounds you, keeping a brand top of mind.
Local TV stations like 9News and radio stations like KBCO 97.3 are household names in Denver. These platforms connect businesses with audiences who may not be as engaged online, but still rely on traditional channels for information.
Local Reach
A billboard in downtown Denver or an ad on 9News can instantly connect your brand with thousands of local residents, offering a tangible way to make an impact.
Trust and Familiarity
According to MarketingSherpa, 82% of consumers trust print ads more than digital ones. Ads in The Denver Post benefit from the publication’s established trust with readers.
Local Example
Apple Aire, a Denver-based HVAC company, increased its local presence by placing print ads in The Denver Post and sponsoring segments on 99.5 The Mountain. This strategy led to a 25% uptick in calls for HVAC installations, outperforming their digital-only campaigns.
Traditional media provides a level of familiarity and trust that digital ads can sometimes struggle to achieve.
2. Traditional Media Supports a Hybrid Marketing Strategy
Successful marketing today often blends traditional and digital strategies. Not everyone is online all the time, and some potential customers prefer reading 5280 Magazine or flipping through The Denver Post with their morning coffee.
By combining both approaches, Denver businesses can reach a broader audience and create a comprehensive marketing plan.
Reaching Offline Audiences
Residents in neighborhoods like Washington Park and Cherry Creek, particularly older demographics, may not be as digitally connected as younger generations in RiNo. Radio ads or newspaper features ensure your brand reaches these potential customers.
Cross-Promotion
Pairing traditional ads with a digital call-to-action—such as a QR code in a print ad—can drive customers to your website or social media. Simple, yet highly effective.
Local Example
A Denver-based real estate firm that specializes in luxury homes combined full-page spreads in 5280 Magazine with radio ads on KHOW 630 AM and social media campaigns. This hybrid strategy led to more in-person consultations and high-quality leads from clients who prefer offline engagement.
Blending traditional and digital media ensures your brand reaches all customer segments, whether they are online or offline.
3. The Evolution of Traditional Media in the Digital Age
Traditional media isn’t stuck in the past—it’s evolving. Denver’s local TV, radio, and print outlets have embraced digital tools to maintain relevance, offering new opportunities for businesses to engage with audiences.
Digital Transformation
Newspapers like The Denver Post now offer digital subscriptions, while local TV stations like KDVR Fox31 stream news online, making traditional media more accessible to tech-savvy audiences.
Multi-Platform Engagement
Traditional outlets now run apps, podcasts, and maintain active social media accounts. For instance, 9News offers a mobile app and streaming services to ensure continued engagement across different platforms.
Local Example
A Denver-based nonprofit organization ran a campaign for its annual fundraising gala, using a mix of print ads in The Denver Post and digital ads on 9News.com. The campaign helped them sell out the event while also increasing overall awareness for their cause.
By evolving and adapting to digital trends, traditional media remains relevant and continues to deliver results for Denver businesses.
4. Maximizing the Power of Mobile with Traditional Media
With mobile phones playing a central role in our daily lives, traditional media has adapted to remain accessible. Local newspapers like 5280 Magazine now have mobile apps, and radio stations like KBCO 97.3 can be streamed directly from your smartphone.
Mobile-Optimized Platforms
Local radio stations like 99.5 The Mountain offer mobile streaming, allowing businesses to reach audiences who may be commuting or browsing their phones while on the go.
On-the-Go Engagement
Advertising on mobile-friendly traditional media ensures that your brand stays top-of-mind, even for customers who might not be in front of a TV or computer.
Local Example
Mutiny Information Cafe, a popular bookstore and coffee shop in Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood, advertised on The Colorado Sound radio station. Thanks to mobile listeners, the cafe saw a 15% increase in sales from their weekly specials, driven by customers who heard the ad while commuting.
With traditional media becoming mobile-friendly, businesses can stay connected to Denver’s dynamic, mobile-savvy population.
5. Trust and Authority: Traditional Media’s Credibility in a Digital World
With growing skepticism toward online content, traditional media retains a level of trust that is often unmatched by digital platforms. People tend to trust their local TV stations like Fox31 or print outlets like 5280 Magazine, as these platforms have built long-standing relationships with their audiences.
Building Consumer Trust
According to Pew Research, 60% of U.S. adults trust traditional news sources more than digital-only platforms. Ads in The Denver Post or on CBS4 Denver are seen as more credible, making them great platforms for enhancing your brand’s credibility.
Expert Journalism
Traditional outlets invest in professional journalism, which further boosts the reliability and trustworthiness of the content they produce. Ads that run on these platforms benefit from the trust that audiences place in them.
Local Example
A Denver-based law firm ran a campaign on Fox31 during the evening news, focusing on their commitment to the community and long-standing local presence. Over three months, the firm saw a 40% increase in consultation requests, showing how aligning with trusted local media can build strong brand authority.
By advertising through trusted local outlets, your business can strengthen its reputation and build long-term relationships with your audience.
Conclusion & Contact
As Denver’s business landscape evolves, traditional media continues to play a key role in boosting sales and building trust. Whether it’s a billboard along I-25 or a radio sponsorship, traditional media connects with audiences in ways digital platforms often cannot.
For small businesses partnering with a marketing agency in Denver, integrating traditional and digital marketing strategies is the key to reaching your full potential. By blending these methods, you can boost your brand’s visibility, increase sales, and build trust within your local community. Contact Creative Options today! to learn more about how traditional media in Denver, Colorado can help you grow sales.
Author Bio:
David Drewitz is the founder of Creative Options, a marketing agency based in Denver, Colorado. With over 25 years of experience, David specializes in blending traditional and digital marketing strategies to help businesses increase visibility and grow sales. He has worked with clients ranging from local startups to national brands. Connect with David on LinkedIn to learn more about his expertise in marketing for businesses of all sizes.
Recent Statistics and Research:
- Pew Research: 60% of U.S. adults trust traditional media more than digital platforms.
- MarketingSherpa: 82% of consumers trust print ads more than digital ads.
- Nielsen: TV reaches 85% of U.S. adults weekly.
FAQs:
- 1. What is traditional media?
Traditional media refers to platforms like TV, radio, print, and billboards that have been used for decades to reach large audiences. - 2. How does traditional media benefit local businesses?
Traditional media helps local businesses build trust and reach offline audiences, complementing their digital marketing strategies. - 3. How can traditional and digital media work together?
By using cross-platform strategies such as QR codes in print ads or driving radio listeners to your website or social media platforms. - 4. Are traditional ads expensive for small businesses?
Many local newspapers, radio stations, and TV networks offer affordable advertising packages tailored for small businesses. - 5. Why is traditional media more trusted than digital media?
Traditional outlets have long-standing credibility, built through fact-checked journalism, making their ads more reliable.
