Does Direct Mail Still Work in 2025? | Direct Mail Marketing

In an era dominated by social media ads and AI-driven campaigns, many business owners wonder — does direct mail still work in 2025? The short answer is yes, and it’s working better than ever for local businesses that understand how to combine it with smart digital marketing.

Let’s explore why direct mail marketing continues to thrive, and how 9x12 mailers are helping small businesses reach customers more effectively than digital ads alone.

1. The Return of Tangible Marketing

Despite living in a digital world, people still love physical, tangible experiences. According to a recent USPS Marketing Mail Report, 75% of consumers feel more connected to brands that send them physical mail.

Unlike digital ads that disappear in seconds, direct mail marketing lands directly in the customer’s hands — creating a sensory connection that online media can’t replicate.

2. The Power of 9x12 Mailers

A 9x12 mailer is a large, full-color postcard that features multiple local businesses on one shared mailing. It’s cost-effective and high-visibility — mailed directly to thousands of homes within a chosen ZIP code.

These oversized cards stand out immediately in the mailbox, and because several businesses share the cost, it becomes one of the most affordable direct mail options for small local businesses.

At Local Business Assist (LBA), we help small business owners create 9x12 postcard campaigns that target ideal neighborhoods. Each card is designed for maximum visibility, helping businesses attract new customers while keeping marketing costs low.
👉 Learn more about our Local Marketing Solutions.

3. Why Direct Mail Marketing Still Works in 2025

Here are a few reasons why direct mail marketing remains a smart investment for 2025 and beyond:

a. Higher Engagement Rates

Direct mail consistently delivers higher engagement compared to digital ads. Research from the Data & Marketing Association shows response rates for direct mail average 4.9%, compared to just 0.6% for email.

b. Better Targeting

Modern tools allow you to segment by ZIP code, income, or interests — ensuring your mailer reaches the right households. For example, LBA’s campaigns focus on local targeting, helping business owners reach customers near their storefront.

c. Works with Digital

Direct mail doesn’t compete with digital ads — it complements them. You can add QR codes or short links that lead to your website, funnel, or booking page, bridging offline and online marketing seamlessly.

d. Builds Local Trust

People still associate mail with legitimacy. When your business appears on a professionally designed 9x12 postcard, it gains credibility simply by being in the mailbox alongside other local brands.

4. 9x12 Mailers vs. Digital Ads: Which Wins?

Let’s compare both channels briefly:

The best strategy in 2025? Combine both. Use direct mail to create awareness and digital remarketing to follow up online.

5. How to Launch a 9x12 Mailer Campaign

Here’s a simple roadmap:

1. Choose a Target Area: Pick ZIP codes where your customers live.

2. Select Ad Space: Reserve a spot on a 9x12 postcard shared with other trusted local businesses.

3. Design Your Offer: Add a clear call-to-action — like a discount or limited-time offer.

4. Mail and Track: Your cards are delivered to thousands of households.

5. Measure Results: Use tracking codes, QR links, or call tracking to measure responses.

Want help setting this up? Visit our Direct Mail Campaigns page to learn more.

6. The Future of Direct Mail Marketing

As digital ad fatigue grows, businesses are rediscovering the power of the mailbox. Modern direct mail integrates data analytics, automation, and personalization — turning a traditional medium into a precision marketing tool.

In 2025, direct mail marketing is far from outdated — it’s evolving. When used strategically with tools like CRM integration and targeted design, it delivers powerful local reach and measurable ROI.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is 9x12 direct mail marketing?

It’s a shared mail postcard measuring 9x12 inches, featuring multiple local businesses. Each company pays for a section, reducing costs while reaching thousands of nearby households.

2. Is direct mail still effective in 2025?

Yes. Direct mail marketing maintains high response rates and credibility. It works especially well when combined with digital campaigns.

3. How much does a 9x12 mailer cost?

Prices vary by location and quantity, but shared mailers are significantly more affordable than solo campaigns since costs are divided among advertisers.

4. Can I track responses from direct mail?

Absolutely. You can include QR codes, coupon codes, or unique phone numbers to measure conversions from your campaign.

5. What’s better — direct mail or digital ads?

Both have advantages. Direct mail builds trust and awareness, while digital ads provide quick follow-ups and retargeting. Using both yields the best results.

Conclusion

Direct mail marketing isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving in 2025. The tangible impact of a 9x12 postcard remains unmatched for local visibility, and when combined with digital strategy, it becomes a low-cost, high-return method for small businesses.

If you’re ready to explore how direct mail can grow your business, connect with Local Business Assist (LBA) at LBA4U.com — your partner in modern local marketing.