E-retailer newegg.ca has been relying on word of mouth advertising and new loyal customer relationships for increased sales and traffic on the recently launched Web site. Today, though, it’s taking to the streets.
The company, a subsidiary of US e-retailer newegg.com, is hoping to attract new loyal users in the Greater Toronto Area by appearing at Union Station during rush hour and giving away 10,000 croissants and $20 off coupons, to be used on any purchase on newegg.ca.
“It will be all about putting the face to the name; people may have heard about Newegg since the website was launched 20 days ago, but now they can meet us and make their first purchase,” said Bernard Luthi, vice-president of merchandising.
Sixty-five per cent of Canadians who responded to a survey on newegg.ca said they heard about the site through a friend. And these figures are the same for the American counterpart, which is the second most popular e-retailer in the US with $1.9 billion in sales last year, said Luthi.
“We don’t do a ton of advertising, we’re not out there making Super Bowl commercials or doing brand advertising but we are trying to raise general awareness and targeting the same demographic as in the United States – the 19-35 male, which accounts for 90 per cent of U.S. sales.”
Newegg.ca currently has 40 to 50 per cent of the American stock available, but new distribution agreements with manufacturers will allow 80 to 90 per cent of product offerings by Jan. 1.