Definition§
Mail order firms are companies that market and sell products directly to consumers, traditionally through printed catalogs but increasingly via online platforms. These firms allow customers to place orders for merchandise, which is then shipped directly to them, eliminating the need for a physical storefront. They often specialize in a particular type of merchandise, such as computer software, hardware, apparel, or household goods.
Examples§
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Computer Mail Order Firms:
- Software Specialization: Firms like SoftChoice and CDW provide a variety of software solutions.
- Hardware Specialization: Companies such as Newegg and TigerDirect focus on selling computer hardware.
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Clothing and Apparel:
- Firms like L.L. Bean and Lands’ End offer a wide range of clothing and accessories through their catalogs and online stores.
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Household Goods:
- Firms like IKEA and Williams-Sonoma offer a variety of furniture, kitchenware, and decor through their catalogs and e-commerce platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)§
What are mail order firms?§
Mail order firms are companies that sell products directly to consumers through catalogs or online platforms, shipping merchandise directly to the customer’s location.
How do mail order firms typically market their products?§
Traditionally, mail order firms market their products through printed catalogs, but many now use websites, email marketing, and social media.
Are mail order firms still relevant in the digital age?§
Yes, many mail order firms have transitioned to online sales, merging traditional catalog marketing with modern e-commerce to reach a broader customer base.
What are some advantages of purchasing from mail order firms?§
Customers can shop from home with a wide selection of products, often accessing specialized items not available locally. Additionally, mail order firms provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews online.
Can I return merchandise ordered from a mail order firm?§
Return policies vary by company, but many offer easy return processes where customers can send back unwanted items for a refund or exchange.
Related Terms with Definitions§
- Catalog Marketing: A form of direct marketing where products are listed in a catalog and orders are placed via mail, phone, or online.
- E-commerce: Commercial transactions conducted electronically on the internet.
- Product Specialization: Focusing on selling a specific type of product to meet particular consumer needs.
- Direct Sales: Selling products directly to consumers bypassing traditional retail stores.
Online References§
- Investopedia: Mail Order
- Wikipedia: Mail Order
Suggested Books for Further Studies§
- “The Direct Mail Solution: A Business Owner’s Guide to Building a Lead-Generating, Sales-Driving, Money-Making Direct-Mail Campaign” by Craig Simpson.
- “Catalog Copy That Sizzles: All the Hooks, Lines, and Sinkers You’ll Ever Need to Write Copy That Grabs Attention, and Sells!” by Herschell Gordon Lewis.
- “How to Make Money with Social Media: An Insider’s Guide on Using New and Emerging Media to Grow Your Business” by Jamie Turner and Reshma Shah.
Fundamentals of Mail Order Firms: Marketing Basics Quiz§
Thank you for exploring the concept of mail order firms through this comprehensive guide and quiz! Keep refining your understanding of marketing and business fundamentals.
