Anatomy of a Winning Specialty Envelope: Extended Envelope

January 27, 2025

Specialty features can transform standard envelopes into compelling marketing tools, adding not only visual appeal but also measurable benefits: increased response rates and ROI for direct-mail campaigns.

For example, our Extended Envelope boosted response rates from 1% to 8% on a quarterly loyalty rewards mailing. That kind of impact is a major reason why a Fortune 50 institution mails 15 million Extended Envelopes each month.

What makes our Extended Envelope such an effective direct-mail marketing tool? The right blend of specialty features. Here’s the anatomy of a winning specialty envelope.

Interactive Opening

The Extended Envelope features a perforated zip strip that engages customers with an interesting and interactive way to open their envelopes.

The zip strip also qualifies the Extended Envelope for a 4% USPS discount under the Tactile, Sensory & Interactive promotion, which can be combined with the Informed Delivery (1%) and Sustainability (1%) promotions for a total discount of up to 6%.

Drop-Down Panel

True to its namesake, the Extended Envelope’s drop-down panel extends your messaging through additional marketing real estate. When recipients open the Extended Envelope, the drop-down panel can reveal product or service details and images, sales copy, a special promotion, or anything else your audience needs to know.

The drop-down panel not only offers a unique presentation, but it can also help you save on printing costs by eliminating the need to stuff your envelope with a sales letter or brochure.

Insert

The Extended Envelope also makes it easy to draw attention to your inserts. When recipients unfold the drop-down panel, the insert practically falls right into their laps.

It’s a great way to ensure customers see inserts such as order forms, special promotions, and other materials that drive response.

Additional Features

The Extended Envelope is a patented design yet offers multiple customization options, including:

  • Windows: Your Extended Envelope can be closed-faced or windowed to tease the contents inside and influence open rates
  • Paper Stocks: Choose from various paper stocks to match your brand image and lend a powerful first impression
  • Sizes: Our Extended Envelopes are available in multiple sizes, including #10 and 6×9

In addition, the Extended Envelope is machine insertable, making it easy to automate insertion.

The Extended Envelope showcases how a combination of specialty features can enhance presentation and engagement, influencing higher open rates and, ultimately, greater ROI. Consult Priority Envelope’s experts to discover how our Extended Envelopes can help you achieve direct mail success.

Get Started Today!

Transform your mailing and packaging solutions today! Discover how Priority Envelope’s advanced services and fast turnaround times can meet all your envelope and custom folding carton needs. Contact us now to get started!