The Year-End Report Every Mail Marketer Should Read

As we close out 2025, we’re excited to share the December edition of the Direct Mail Insiders Report, created in collaboration with Who’s Mailing What! Our 40+ year-old archive powers much of the data, examples, and campaign analysis featured throughout each issue.

This month’s report is especially packed—perfect for marketers preparing for a strong kickoff to 2026. Here’s a look at what you’ll find inside:

Valentine’s Day Campaign Ideas to Start Planning Now

February arrives fast, and smart marketers are already mapping out their first major campaigns of the year. The report highlights creative angles and real examples pulled directly from the WMW database to help you jump-start your Valentine’s Day strategy.

A Recap of the 2025 Editorial Features

The Direct Mail Insiders team rounds up the major editorial themes they explored this year—from creative trends to vertical deep dives. It’s a helpful reference point as you plan your 2026 content and campaign calendar.

Beyond the Mailbox: When “Best Practices” Hold You Back

This month’s Beyond the Mailbox column examines the hidden downsides of relying too heavily on standard best practices. Sometimes the “safe bet” ends up being the least effective one—and this section breaks down why.

DMA Award Case Study: Online Travel Campaign

The report features an award-winning direct mail campaign from an online travel brand, showcasing how smart segmentation and personalized messaging led to strong response rates. It’s a powerful example of how digital-first industries can find success with mail.

AI Caution Flags for Marketers

With AI tools gaining traction across the industry, the report outlines key pitfalls to watch for in 2026. Instead of jumping on every new tool, this section encourages a thoughtful, strategic approach.

The December Direct Mail Insiders Report is designed to inspire fresh thinking and stronger marketing as we head into the new year—made even richer through its collaboration with the Who’s Mailing What! database.

Download the full report now and step into 2026 with a stronger direct mail strategy.