Branded Notepads vs Business Cards: Which Offers Better ROI?
Branded notepads offer long-term visibility, high retention, and strong ROI through everyday use, making them ideal for sustained brand exposure. Business cards are better suited for immediate interactions and professional impressions, but their impact is typically short-lived.
Branded notepads and business cards are two of the most recognisable promotional tools used by UK businesses. This article explores their real-world value, weighing cost-per-impression, retention, and brand impact to help you determine which offers the best return on investment. In today’s competitive business environment, marketing tools are evolving, but some traditional methods still hold strong value. While digital marketing continues to dominate, physical items like branded notepads and business cards remain essential for connecting with potential clients and enhancing brand visibility. The question is: Which offers better return on investment (ROI)?
1. What Is ROI in Print Marketing?
To understand the ROI of physical marketing materials, it’s important to define return on investment (ROI) in the context of print marketing. ROI measures the profitability of your marketing expenditure. For printed materials like notepads and business cards, ROI is often assessed through cost-per-impression, retention rates, and engagement levels.
- Impressions: How often the material is seen by potential customers.
- Retention: The length of time the material is kept by the recipient.
- Lead Generation: Whether the material results in a sale or customer engagement.
Both notepads and business cards offer different levels of impact, so evaluating these factors helps businesses understand which material generates the best value for money.
2. The Role of Branded Notepads in Promotional Marketing
Branded notepads offer tremendous value due to their utility and visibility. Notepads are frequently used in both personal and professional settings, making them one of the most effective promotional tools for long-term brand exposure. They are especially popular in express products campaigns where speed and branding both matter.
Key Benefits:
- High Retention: Notepads are used for months or even years, keeping your brand top-of-mind.
- Cost-Effective: Low cost-per-impression through repeated use.
- Versatility: Ideal for giveaways, events, and staff use—whether in A5 custom notebooks, A6, or even DL notebook formats.
Supporting Data: According to APPA research, 76% of people recall the brand on a promotional product, over 55% keep these items for more than a year, and nearly 50% use them daily (Wikipedia – Promotional Merchandise). For an example of how these items can serve targeted campaigns, take a look at this article: Back-to-School Essentials: Why Custom Notepads Are a Must.
3. The Power of Business Cards in Direct Networking
While notepads are useful for long-term visibility, business cards are indispensable for direct networking. Typically exchanged during face-to-face interactions, business cards are still widely used in meetings, conferences, and networking events.
Key Benefits:
- First Impressions: Offers a tangible introduction to your brand.
- Immediate Contact: An easy way for prospects to follow up quickly.
- Professionalism: Signals credibility and trustworthiness.
Supporting Data: Studies show that business cards are typically retained for 5–7 days, and those with unique textures or materials can remain in use for twice as long (Business Card Statistics Guide). Want to find out why branded stationery makes an ideal gift? Learn more.
4. ROI Comparison: Branded Notepads vs Business Cards
| Metric | Branded Notepads | Business Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Unit | Typically low, especially in bulk. | Low, especially with bulk printing. |
| Retention Rate | High—used daily for extended periods. | Short—retained for 2–3 days. |
| Impressions | High—consistent exposure over time. | Limited—brief exposure during networking. |
| Brand Visibility | High—frequent use in multiple settings. | Low—short-lived, but impactful. |
| Perceived Value | High—often seen as a useful gift. | Moderate—considered basic but essential. |
Branded notepads generally provide better ROI for long-term exposure. Although business cards are effective for immediate networking, notepads offer continued visibility and lower cost-per-impression over time.
5. Environmental Impact and Brand Perception
As sustainability becomes a greater priority for UK consumers, it’s essential to consider the environmental footprint of promotional products. Our Eco-Friendly Notepad Printing: What You Need to Know guide explores this in more detail.
- Branded Notepads: Often made from recycled paper or FSC-certified sources, making them a greener choice.
- Business Cards: Typically single-use, but recyclable materials can reduce their impact.
Brands that prioritise eco-conscious marketing often experience greater customer loyalty and a stronger brand image.
6. When to Use Branded Notepads vs Business Cards
Use Branded Notepads When:
- You want long-lasting brand visibility.
- You’re aiming to increase recall over time.
- Your audience includes professionals or office workers.
- You need a functional item that recipients value. Specific notepads can be designed for different niches.
Use Business Cards When:
- You’re attending face-to-face meetings or events.
- You want to offer instant contact information.
- You’re targeting prospects who prefer direct communication.
- You need a compact, professional branding tool.
7. Practical Tips for Maximising ROI on Printed Materials
- Design for Impact: Keep layouts clean, on-brand, and functional. Try using wirobound notepads for better usability or glued notepads for budget-conscious options.
- Add Value: Use discount codes or QR links to encourage engagement.
- Targeted Distribution: Match your materials to specific events or campaigns, such as A3 custom notebooks for conferences or A4 pads for internal meetings.
- Track Performance: Use customer feedback or tracking tools to measure ROI.
Conclusion: The Smarter Print Choice Depends on Your Goal
Both branded notepads and business cards deliver value, but the better option depends on your objective. Notepads excel in brand recall and long-term impressions, while business cards offer immediacy and professional impact during face-to-face introductions.
By aligning your print strategy with your business goals, you can maximise ROI and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Ready to boost your brand’s presence? Consider incorporating branded notepads or business cards into your marketing strategy to enhance your ROI.