Planning a Successful Product Launch on a Budget for Australian Makers in Business
Launching a new product is one of the most exciting milestones for any maker in business. Whether you’re a craftsperson, designer, or artist, unveiling a new creation to your customers can drive brand awareness, build excitement, and ultimately boost sales
It’s a GREAT opportunity you can take advantage of for marketing purposes too!
When you’re working with a tight budget, it can feel overwhelming to plan a product launch with impact. The good news is, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can execute a successful product launch without breaking the bank.
Here’s how you can plan an affordable yet effective product launch that leaves a lasting impression.
1. Leverage Social Media to Build Anticipation
Social media platforms are essential tools for makers, and they offer a cost-free way to promote your upcoming product launch. The key is to build anticipation before the big day. Here’s how:
- Tease Your Product: Start sharing sneak peeks or behind-the-scenes content of your new product. This could be close-up shots, videos of the making process, or product packaging reveals. Posting “coming soon” content can pique curiosity and get your audience excited.
- Use Countdown Stories and Posts: Platforms like Instagram Stories allow you to create countdowns to your launch day, keeping your audience engaged. As the launch day nears, remind your followers that it’s almost time to get their hands on your latest creation.
- Host a Giveaway or Contest: A simple giveaway can create buzz around your launch. Ask your audience to share your posts, tag friends, or sign up for your newsletter in exchange for a chance to win your new product. This drives engagement and spreads the word about your upcoming launch.
Members-only resources — Join here
Our Maker’s Interactive Content Planner is a perfect tool to build our your social media strategy for your Product Launch.
Make a copy of the file specifically for the campaign, separate to your regular content schedule so you have a framework to use over and over again!
2. Collaborate with Influencers and Fellow Creators
Collaboration is a powerful yet affordable way to promote your product. If you don’t have the budget for paid influencers, consider reaching out to micro-influencers, bloggers, or fellow creatives in your industry who have an engaged following.
- Work with Micro-Influencers: Micro-influencers (those with 1,000–10,000 followers) often have a more engaged audience and are more accessible for smaller budgets. We always recommend setting up an agreement in advance outlining your terms so you don’t get stung after sending the product. And always be sure to adhere to Australian Ad Standards and Consumer Law.
- Partner with Fellow Makers or Small Businesses: Team up with other local makers or businesses to cross-promote your products. This could be through joint giveaways, shout-outs on each other’s social media, or even co-hosting an online event to raise awareness about your products.
3. Create a Product Launch Email Campaign
Email marketing is one of the most effective ways to reach your audience directly and share the details of your product launch. The best part? It’s incredibly affordable, and you likely already have a customer email list you can tap into.
Members-only resources — Join here
Watch Maker Session: Email Marketing for Makers
- Segment Your Audience: If you have different types of customers, segment your email list to send targeted messages. For example, those who’ve purchased from you before may get an exclusive pre-order offer, while new subscribers might receive a sneak peek.
- Create a Series of Emails: Don’t just send one email about your launch. Plan a series of emails that build excitement. Start by teasing the launch, then send an announcement on launch day, followed by a reminder email if there are limited quantities available or special offers.
- Offer Special Discounts: Offer an exclusive discount for those who sign up to your newsletter or make a purchase within a certain time frame. This will encourage your subscribers to take action and boost sales right out of the gate.
4. Host a Live Stream
Hosting a virtual event is a budget-friendly way to engage your audience and give them an inside look at your new product. This can be done on social media platforms such as Instagram Live, Facebook Live, or even Zoom. Here’s how you can do it:
- Product Demo: Use the event to showcase your new product, explain how it’s made, or demonstrate its features. This personal touch allows your audience to connect with the product as well as you and your brand on a deeper level.
- Q&A Session: Host a live Q&A where you answer questions about the new product and your creative process. This can make your audience feel involved in the launch.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Take your audience behind the scenes of your studio or workshop to see how your products are made. This adds a sense of authenticity and transparency to your brand.
5. Pop-Up Events
If you want to get your product in front of an audience in person but have a limited marketing budget, local pop-up markets or collaborating with local retailers can be highly effective.
- Join Pop-Up Markets: Look for local markets or fairs in your area where you can display your products. Use this opportunity to announce your launch and offer exclusive deals for those attending. This is also a great way to meet potential customers and grow your local customer base.
- Partner with Local Retailers: If you don’t have a physical store, consider partnering with a local retailer or gallery that aligns with your brand. Set up a small in-store display for your new product or ask the store to promote it to their customers in exchange for a small commission.
The Australian Makers directory is a great place to connect with other makers, retailers, galleries and markets.
6. Create Limited-Edition or Pre-Order Offers
If you want to generate buzz and urgency around your launch, consider offering limited-edition products or pre-order options. By creating a sense of scarcity, you encourage potential customers to act quickly.
- Limited Edition Launch: Offer a small number of exclusive items to create excitement. Promote these limited-edition pieces as something special that won’t be restocked, giving your audience a reason to act fast.
- Pre-Order Campaign: Offer pre-orders for your new product before it officially launches. This helps gauge interest, secure early sales, and build anticipation.
Planning a successful product launch doesn’t require a massive budget, but rather requires strategy, creativity, and a solid understanding of your target audience.
By leveraging social media and email marketing you can create an impactful launch without spending a fortune. Whether you’re introducing a new product to your online store, a local market, or a gallery, these affordable methods will help your new product make a splash and drive sales.
Start planning today, and watch your creative business grow!
