by Wes
29. December 2011 16:47
It was called to my attention this afternoon, by one of our local businesses, that a company from Illinois is selling map advertising in Decatur. I certainly have no objection to that. Everyone is free to do business in our community.
My problem is with false and misleading sales pitches. These companies call the Chamber. They claim someone is "relocating" to Decatur. Will we please send them a relocation packet including a map and phone book? They then use our map to call our advertisers pretending they are doing it for the Chamber and asking the advertiser to "renew" their ad. I have gotten quite good at recognizing these phony "relocators" to the point I will not send packets to a certain city in Illinois (that will remain nameless to protect the innocent). But some still get through.
Please be aware that these companies sell advertising, the money goes back to Illinois and there is little benefit to our community. Our map is produced locally, using local businesses. The money stays in our community.
We do not outsource sales. Any calls regarding something the Chamber is doing will come directly from our office.
As an aside the 2012-13 Decatur map was delivered this week and will be available next week.
Thanks for your support and HAPPY NEW YEAR!