📈

Understanding Co-op Advertising Fundamentals

Apr 19, 2025

LSA Co-op Advertising 101 Presentation

Introduction

  • Presenter: Phil Harris
  • Session Details:
    • Recorded for future reference.
    • Questions can be typed and will be addressed at the end.
  • Objective: Understanding Co-op Advertising.

What is Co-op Advertising?

  • Definition: Agreement between manufacturer and retailer to share advertising costs to create brand awareness.
  • Media Types:
    • Local media: newspaper, radio, TV, digital, etc.
    • Creative ads: Restaurant placemats, websites, social media, etc.
  • Available Co-op in the US: $70 billion, with $30-$35 billion unused annually.
  • Importance of Co-op:
    • Increases advertiser expenditure and competitiveness.
    • Helps tap into large marketing funds.

Benefits of Co-op Advertising

  • For Retailers and Advertisers:
    • Increases ad spend without extra cost from pocket.
    • Drives customer retention and reduces churn.

Challenges in Co-op Usage

  • Complexity and different programs deter usage.
  • Retailers lack time and knowledge to manage co-op.

Co-op Process and Tools

  • Tools & Resources:
    • Manufacturer contact information for ad approvals and claims.
    • Search tools for finding co-op opportunities.
  • Reimbursement Methods:
    • Credit memo or check.

Co-op Terms and Definitions

  • Accrual Percent: Percentage of dealer purchases allocated to co-op balance.
  • Participation Percent: Manufacturer’s reimbursement rate for ads.
  • Accrual Period: Timeline for earning co-op funds.
  • Performance Period: Timeline for using co-op funds.
  • Claim Requirements: Specific documentation needed for reimbursement.

Co-op Plan and Targeting

  • Co-op Plan Overview:
    • Manufacturer-specific plans with contact info, ad specs, and media types.
  • Targeting Strategies:
    • Identifying potential co-op opportunities and promotions.
    • Utilizing tools like dealer locators and ad planners.

Co-op Sales Process

  • Steps for Implementing Co-op Sales:
    1. Targeting: Identify potential co-op clients.
    2. Set Up Advertiser Call: Engage client interest.
    3. Prepare Ad Packet: Include media information and co-op materials.
    4. Present Proposal: Use co-op dollars to increase ad spend.
    5. Get Approval and Implement: Secure ad run approval and manage claiming.

Best Practices

  • Engage Advertisers: Regular communication and prepared materials.
  • Proposal Development: Customize based on available co-op balances.
  • Retention Strategies: Use co-op as a tool for customer loyalty.

Closing

  • Future Sessions: More webinars to come.
  • Final Thoughts: Importance of customer-centric co-op strategies.

Additional Resources

  • Recast Main Page: For updated tools and resources.
  • Manufacturer Plans: Access and utilize different manufacturer co-op plans.