Fulfilment bureaux - subscriptions made easier

Why use a subscription fulfilment bureau?

Treated correctly, subscribers can become the most loyal readers and one of the foremost resources for a publishing business. Most independent publishers realise this but tend to handle subscribers in-house - certainly at first. However, the more successful a business becomes, the more this precious relationship is strained and pressures put upon it and the resource that is used to handle it. The solution for many is to appoint a specialised bureau to look after the subscription management, and to assist with the marketing strategy.

Surprisingly, this can be a less expensive option. By using a bureau not only can publishers take advantage of fully developed systems but can concentrate on further subscription growth and retention. By offering an increasingly sophisticated and enhanced service, publishers recruit more subscribers, retain more existing ones, increase revenue and so the cycle continues...

What to look for when selecting a bureau:

A 'partnership' between client and bureau - visit the bureau to see their operation and to meet the staff - make sure you can work with them.
Excellent subscriber care & service - ask existing clients what they think.
Advanced and integrated subscription management and telephone system - can they provide the latest developments in these areas?
Skilled and knowledgeable management / account management. How long have they been in the industry and what is their background?
Flexibility - how quickly can they respond to your needs and can they adapt?
Comprehensive and accurate reporting - identify your needs and ask to see a standard set of reports. Do they meet your requirements?
Electronic payment processing for direct debits and credit card payments - are they a BACS accredited bureau?
Comprehensive and flexible marketing database - the key to developing your subscriptions. How much information can they hold about your subscribers and, more importantly, your prospects?
ABC / BPA accredited - check that they can provide the standard reports and have been audited / approved by ABC / BPA.
Additional service capability - eg gift handling, back issues etc. You may need more than just a fulfilment service - what else can they do?
And vision for the future - how can they help you develop?