Rack mail
Rack mail! That's a blast from the past.
Rack mail, also known as "rack cards" or "rack sheets," was a type of direct mail marketing material that was popular in the mid-20th century. It was a rectangular piece of paper or cardboard with a printed message, usually with a fold-out design, that was designed to be mailed in a standard letter-sized envelope.
Rack mail was often used by businesses to promote their products or services, and it was particularly popular in the 1950s and 1960s. The design typically featured a bold headline, eye-catching graphics, and a clear call-to-action. The fold-out design allowed the message to be easily read and understood, making it an effective way to communicate with customers.
Some common features of rack mail include:
- Fold-out design: The card would fold out to reveal more information or a larger image.
- Eye-catching graphics: Bright colors, illustrations, and photographs were used to grab attention.
- Clear headline: A bold, easy-to-read headline that summarized the message.
- Brief message: A concise message that quickly communicated the offer or promotion.
- Call-to-action: A clear instruction on what the reader should do next, such as "Order now" or "Visit our store."
Rack mail was popular because it was an affordable and effective way for businesses to reach a large audience. It was also a great way to promote special offers, new products, or services, and to drive traffic to a physical store or website.
While rack mail is no longer as widely used as it once was, it remains a nostalgic reminder of the early days of direct marketing.