Publishers Clearing House: Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes campaign
Robert SchnakenbergOverview
Founded in 1953, direct marketer Publishers Clearing House went on to become the number one magazine subscription distributor in the United States. Its well-known sweepstakes and "Prize Patrol" marketing campaign awarded cash prizes to consumers throughout North America and, in turn, drew attention to its discounted magazine subscriptions. The arrangement worked to the benefit of both Publishers Clearing House and magazine publishers; the direct marketer kept between 75 and 90 percent of the subscription income, and the publications themselves found profits from renewals.
Historical Context
Founded by Harold and...