By Popular Vote

The presidential election is more than a year away. It will be months before voters determine who will go head to head in the upcoming election. But, when it comes to the business of bumper stickers, lawn signs and rally fans, it's always campaign time. In fact, some say that is the biggest misconception about the election sector of the print industry.

Caitlin Frantzen, marketing associate for Lenexa, Kansas-based Gill Studios, said many people assume political work is seasonal.

"Though there is a seasonal aspect to it, every year there are campaigns," Frantzen noted. "Candidates are working constantly to get elected or re-elected. It is a full-time activity and there are politicians out there all the time trying to gain our support."

Jamie Kirkland, marketing product manager for Wilton, New Hampshire-based Label Art, which has been offering campaign labels for more than five decades, said distributors must remember there are elections beyond national campaigns.

"Although the campaign year 2012 is coming up, there are local campaigns every year that can be a profit for distributors," Kirkland explained. "Do not only focus on the big fish but seek out the local runners, as well; they can be just as profitable for distributors."

In fact, Gill Studios currently is providing products for upcoming campaigns.

"So far this year, we have had a strong emphasis on signs," Frantzen observed. "The most popular item we sell is our patented double-sided yard sign, which is printed on both sides, folded and glued to slip easily over the included wire frame. Currently, there is more emphasis on the state and local elections. In even-numbered years, the state and federal elections will generate more business."

Label Art's product selection is significant and can provide items such as lapel stickers, bumper stickers, window decals, door hangers and other items, Kirkland mentioned.