The Protection Bureau
Best Promotional Giveaway Item
sponsored by PSA Security Network
Visitors to The Protection Bureau don't leave empty-handed. True to its slogan, "Big enough to protect, small enough to care," the family-run security systems and monitoring provider treats customers to the sort of hospitality a doting mother bestows upon the homecoming of her only son. "We have a rule that when a guest comes to The Protection Bureau, they leave with a gift," says company President Matthew Ladd.
It's only fitting then that one of those gifts should earn The Protection Bureau its own present: the SAMMY Award for Promotional Giveaway Item.
The Exton, Pa.-based firm, founded in 1976 and presently earning $15 million annually with 6,000 accounts in seven states, submitted a "padfolio" that wowed the judges. Produced in the company's branded black and navy colors and adorned with its silver-star logo, the pad holder includes a ruler, flash memory stick pen, mouse pad, key ring flashlight and umbrella.
"We like to see our name out there. We like to see it in our clients' hands," says Ladd. "The thought was to give them everything they'd need in a meeting with our security consultants or management team. We also give them a collapsible umbrella so they don't get caught in the rain when they leave."
One of the keys to The Protection Bureau's marketing success is having a full-time client care and marketing coordinator on staff, Gabrielle Kotke. She works with the appropriate personnel and departments to see initiatives through from concept to execution - and does so in an expedient, efficient and cost-effective manner.
"It's about finding just the right 'thing' that will make an impact, be innovative and at the same time not be overdone," says Kotke. Of course, cost plays a role as well. "We're not a large company, but we have the challenge of keeping up with those that are, but not on their budgets," she adds. "We have to look good and be consistent within our own financial plan."
In a further validation of The Protection Bureau's commitment to excellence - and testament to the enduring legacy of founder Keith Ladd who passed away earlier this year - the firm also captured one of SSI's two Installer of the Year awards. Be sure to check out the July issue for that complete story.
Print | posted on Tuesday, June 02, 2009 3:41 PM