Sending coupon codes to customers

[Coramantic]

Hi, I wonder if anyone can help - do you think it's okay to send a coupon code to repeat customers you've not had in your shop for a while? Do you think they would be happy to receive a code or is it too spammy? I was thinking about a fairly generic message to a few I've not seen in a while but I certainly wouldn't want to come across as annoying or pushy. I really wish I'd just posted out some codes with their orders.

[Plektra]

Yes, that would be spammy and it might not look good on your business at all. Personally, I would not like it.

If you have their permission to add them to your mailing list, you could send the email out and let them know.

[RomaMiaTradingCo]

That would be considered spam.

I have a thank you coupon code set up so they automatically get a code. You might want to do that.

[Coramantic]

Thank you Minerva and Nikki, that is a great help, you are both right. I think setting up a thank you code for future purchases is the way I'll go.

[GirlpowerKnits]

I have the automatic code set up, and I include one in most orders. Interestingly, even repeat buyers' rarely use them!

[DreamyPatternsShop]

I have the same as Emily, I send out a code in most orders, but it rarely gets used. I wouldn't send a coupon code right now, I'd think it too spammy as well..

[Coramantic]

Thanks Emily and Lily, that's interesting to hear that even repeat buyers are not using the coupon codes. That said I remember getting one (well it was on a postcard in the order I bought and then I lost the postcard, duh!) Automatic definitely seems best.

[JMSjewelryandgifts]

Normally I include a sheet of paper and business card with each shipment that includes a handwritten note and a loyalty coupon code with no expiration.

It's probably too late for you to send out a code retroactively, but you could start with the next shipments.

[Former_Member]

I send coupon codes along with the orders but so far nobody wanna use it really, i have a lot of repeat customers in my other shops, but they dont bother use coupon...
Sending coupons without ordering is kinda spammy, i send them coupon the time they order item as a thank you coupon.

[Former_Member]

And sending coupons without ordering again is kinda spammy

[MariasWorkshop]

I have another shop that is more active than MariasWorkshop and I include a thank you note with a coupon in every package. I have had returning customers, but up to now nobody has used the coupons; even after reminding the customer to use the coupon when I send them a link for a custom order. A couple of customers told me that they forget to use the coupon.

[GoldhawkPotteryEtc]

I'm in agreement with others. I always send out a printed receipt with written thank you, and my business card with a coupon code on the back for repeat buyers. It never expires. I've had only a couple of people use it in the years I've been doing this. But I think that is what sets us apart from the big box stores or the large manufacturers...so I keep doing it.

[Coramantic]

Gosh it seems strange so many customers don't use coupons, I use them whenever I can (if I don't loose them anyway). It is useful to know this though.

[fishcouple]

After reading the discussions about coupon code, I went ahead and created a 10% off loyalty coupon today. It was my first time but easy.

I send it along with a short memo to the clients who left a nice feedback. I've received 3 clients who said thank you and will come back. :)