Is Direct Mail Marketing Still Relevant in 2025?

Remember when email came out, and everyone thought how cool it was? No more paper to throw away, and communication was instant. Many likely thought we’d never need snail mail again.

That is, until our inboxes started filling up with promotional emails mixed in with the stuff we wanted to read. Basically, our inboxes became digital versions of our physical mailboxes — a few things we wanted to read and the rest that went straight into the trash.

However, most people still get direct mail marketing letters and postcards in their mailboxes. The big question is, why? Why do marketers still fiddle with direct mail when email and social media ads are all the rage? Does this kind of marketing still work in 2025?

The answer is a resounding yes.

While online marketing strategies are powerful, direct mail is still here, and for good reason — it works. Let’s break down why direct mail marketing is still relevant in 2025 and give you some shocking statistics on why that is.

Why Direct Mail Stands Out in 2025

Digital marketing has exploded, and that’s precisely why direct mail continues to shine. People are constantly bombarded by online ads, making physical mail seem more personal and less invasive. Here’s why many businesses still rely on direct mail for their marketing.

Less Competition in the Mailbox

Our inboxes are deluged with marketing emails (many of which go straight to spam). This means that physical mail has less competition for a potential customer’s attention. Whether it’s a well-designed postcard, catalog, or letter that shows up, it’s more likely to get attention than an email. Here’s what Forbes said about this.

“Consider today’s consumer, who likely only gets a few pieces of mail in their mailbox each week but receives thousands of emails a month. The balance has shifted for these consumers, who are not overly saturated with direct mail but are highly overwhelmed by emails and social media ads. Once written off as old and ineffective, direct mail is back.”

Tangible Impact

Direct mail gives recipients something they can hold, which often feels more trustworthy than digital advertising. According to studies, people remember information better when they can physically interact with it. That’s why many people — even the young — prefer physical books and music over digital ones.

Highly Personalized

Modern direct mail campaigns use data to create highly targeted messages. With customized offers, personal greetings, and tailored content, businesses can make their direct mail feel relevant and engaging.

Strong Emotional Response

According to research, physical mail triggers stronger emotional engagement than digital ads. Would you rather get a birthday card in the mail or a happy birthday email? For most people, the physical card in the mail is the winner.

How Effective is Direct Mail?

The data doesn’t lie — direct mail will continue to perform well in 2025. Here are some stats that show how powerful it can be.

• According to the Data & Marketing Association (DMA), direct mail response rates average 4.9% to 9%, compared to 1% or less for email.
• Ninety percent of direct mail gets opened, while only about 20-30% of emails receive the same attention.
• Seventy percent of American consumers say they prefer being contacted by brands via direct mail over digital methods because they can read it on their own time.
• Businesses that integrate direct mail with digital campaigns see a 40% increase in conversion rates compared to relying on digital marketing methods alone.

Industries Where Direct Mail Thrives

Nearly every business can benefit from direct mail, but here are some industries that see spectacular results.

Real Estate: Postcards that showcase listings, open house invites, and market updates are highly effective.

Healthcare: Reminders for appointments, checkups, health tips, and programs that can improve health connect well via direct mail.

Retail and E-Commerce: Coupons, promotions, and personalized offers or discounts often bring shoppers back to the store or website.

Nonprofits: Fundraising letters and personalized donation requests are proven to engage donors.

Tips for Successful Direct Mail in 2025

If you’re considering adding (or maintaining) direct mail as part of your marketing strategy, here are some things to consider.

Personalization is Key: Direct mail works best when it’s personalized. Use data insights to create tailored messages. Include the recipient’s name, offer relevant discounts, or highlight nearby store locations.

Incorporate QR Codes and Digital Touchpoints: Today’s direct mail can work in tandem with digital marketing. Bridge this gap between the physical and digital worlds with QR codes that lead to landing pages, video content, or online offers.

Eye-Catching Design Matters: While there’s less competition in the physical mailbox, you still have to give recipients something nice to look at. Bold visuals, a clear call to action, and minimal clutter can boost response rates.

Track and Measure Results: Like digital marketing, you must track your results so you can tweak your marketing efforts to get the results you want. Use unique promo codes, custom landing pages, or tracking numbers to gauge how well your campaign is working and where you need to adjust.

Include a Strong Offer: Whether it’s a discount, a freebie, or a limited-time deal, it’s crucial to give the person a reason to respond.

Digital marketing will continue growing, but direct mail remains a powerful tool to connect with current and potential customers. If you’d like to know more about direct mail or need help incorporating it into your marketing efforts, call Brandtastic. It might be the game-changer your business needs.