from the editor: David Howse
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Alberta Marketing Strategy! I would first like to thank the contributing writers, who are all Alberta business owners, for sharing some of their business strategies and especially for sharing some of their mistakes.
The purpose of this magazine is twofold. First, to provide the only pure marketing strategy magazine that focuses solely on small and medium sized business in Alberta.
According to Canada Post, Alberta has 93,699 businesses; therefore opening a forum dedicated to Alberta marketing issues is something I believe to be directly beneficial to those businesses.
The second purpose, which is really what kick-started this magazine, is to provide justifiable advertising cost. I identified the need for a client of mine to advertise in an Alberta business magazine. After researching costs we discovered that a one-page ad in Alberta business magazines would cost as much as $10,000.
Because of my experience in business analysis, product development, sales, Internet marketing, film and TV production, general marketing, and a strong background in print production, I knew I could produce an entire magazine, print 25,000 copies and then have them distributed for under $10,000. The cost to benefit analysis of whether to advertise in or produce a magazine was simple. The equation was a one page ad for $10,000 or an entire magazine for $10,000.
When we approached potential advertisers the feedback was positive and thus this magazine was born.
There are three great features in this issue. First, we tell the story of Cawston & Associates, a Calgary-based tax accounting firm that has an incredibly unique solution for businesses in or approaching bankruptcy. Then, former business owner and current Lethbridge business consultant Donna Wetterstrand tackles the issue of connecting your business’ operations policies and employee training with your marketing. Finally, Joe Chenier, president of Colony Distribution Inc., shares his ups and downs on product selection for those operating a distributorship. We’ve also packed this issue with tons of marketing tips that work for any business.
Issue two is already under development so call us at (403) 991-8863 or email if you would like to be a part of what we think is the best value in magazine advertising.
See you next issue!
David Howse, Editor david@davidhowsemarketing.com Tel (403) 991-8863
