Over a third of local businesses that cut back on advertising last year are now reporting that their decision had a negative or extremely negative impact on their business. In response, 42% of small business owners are now expecting to spend more on advertising and marketing over the next year. Here is where/how they are planning on allocating their budgets:

• Improving their online presence (46%) 
• Print Materials/Direct Mail/Newsletters (44%) 
• Brochures (43%) 
• Yellow Page listings (39%) 
• Fliers and signs/banners/posters (37%)
• Social networking sites (36%)
• Newspaper ads (32%)

Today, with so many affordable and nearly cost-free options for increasing your marketing presence, there's no reason to cut back entirely on your local advertising and marketing efforts.

At Balihoo, we deal with thousands of local affiliates, distributors and franchisees from a variety of industries. Two commonalities that tie them all together - local marketing is difficult and the last 18-months have been especially taxing. If you're confused about local store marketing - take heart in knowing that there are resources out there! Helping new and old customers with their marketing needs is why Baihoo exists!