Direct mail is a highly effective marketing strategy. Research shows 85% of marketers agree direct mail delivers the best conversion rate of all channels they use, up from 74% in 2023.  About 88% also say they see conversion rates from direct mail at least 5% higher than their next closest marketing channel.

But the proof is also in the pudding as they say; over history, some of the most successful marketing campaigns have involved direct mail. We compiled a list of the 7 most effective direct mail campaigns to date. Take some of these ideas and then implement them into your next marketing campaign for better results!

1. IKEA’s Catalog Campaign

ikea popup bedroom mailer

IKEA’s annual catalog, first published in 1951, became a cornerstone of its marketing strategy. At its peak in 2016, over 200 million copies were distributed in 32 languages across more than 50 markets, showcasing IKEA’s products in real-life settings and inspiring customers worldwide.

2. Barack Obama’s 2008 Fundraising Mailer

obama mail piece

Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign set fundraising records, raising over $745 million, with a significant portion attributed to small donors. ​Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign revolutionized political fundraising by leveraging digital platforms to engage a vast number of small donors. While the campaign’s innovative use of the internet was pivotal, traditional methods like direct mail also played a role in their comprehensive strategy.

3. American Express Black Card Invitation

American Express Centurion Black Card

American Express’s Centurion Card, often referred to as the “Black Card,” is an invitation-only charge card targeting high-net-worth individuals. The exclusivity and mystery surrounding the card have made its direct mail invitations highly anticipated and prestigious.

4. Netflix’s Red Envelope DVD Mailers

netflix red dvd mailer

Netflix’s use of distinctive red envelopes for DVD rentals made their mailers instantly recognizable, reinforcing brand identity and ensuring customer engagement.

5. Charity: Water’s Handwritten Thank-You Notes

charity handwritten thank you note

Charity: Water’s practice of sending personalized, handwritten thank-you notes to donors added a personal touch, enhancing donor relationships and encouraging repeat contributions.

6. Bed Bath & Beyond’s 20% Off Coupons

bed bath and beyond coupon

Bed Bath & Beyond’s consistent mailing of 20% off coupons became a hallmark of their marketing strategy, driving in-store traffic and purchases.

7. Google’s AdWords Credit Mailers

google adword credit mailer

Google’s strategy of sending free AdWords credit to businesses via direct mail encouraged companies to try their advertising platform, leading to increased adoption and revenue.

Luckily today technology has progressed and now direct mail marketing campaigns are much easier and faster to launch. In the past, these mailer campaigns had to be planned and executed manually and they took a great deal of time and effort.

Now direct mail API solutions have allowed companies to quickly and easily mail postcards or letters with just a few clicks. Once automated, mailers can also go out based on specified triggers, like if a new client is added to a list or if a person has filled out a form online.

Beyond the high-tech direct mail solutions, working with a marketing expert like us that has its own in-house printing and mailing facility as well as strict quality control standards is advantageous.

Have questions for us? Call us and let us know how we can help you execute your next direct mail marketing campaign and achieve massive success like these top 7 companies did.