Is physical mail on the verge of a major comeback—or already in the middle of one? As marketers head into 2026 navigating tighter budgets, audience fatigue, and digital overcrowding, one channel continues to quietly outperform expectations: direct mail.
Below are a few highlights from this month’s free report—but you’ll want to download the full edition for all the insider info.
Will 2026 Be a Breakout Year for Physical Mail?
Inbox fatigue is real. Digital CPMs continue to rise. And consumers are craving experiences that feel more human.
In this month’s report, we explore why physical mail is uniquely positioned to thrive in 2026—and how marketers are using it as a competitive advantage rather than a legacy channel. From higher engagement rates to stronger emotional impact, the data and real-world observations may change how you think about mail’s role in your marketing mix.
Why Testing in Direct Mail Is Non-Negotiable
The most successful direct mail marketers aren’t guessing—they’re testing.
This edition breaks down why structured testing is the difference between “hoping it works” and building a repeatable growth engine. From formats and offers to timing and messaging, the report highlights how smart experimentation leads to predictable results—and how even small tests can unlock major performance gains.
Mailing of the Month: ZipRecruiter
Every month, Direct Mail Insiders spotlight a standout campaign—and January’s Mailing of the Month comes from ZipRecruiter, one of the largest users of direct mail in the online employment marketplace.
We compare two of their most-used campaigns and walk through what makes them effective, how they align with the brand’s message, and why these are great examples of modern direct mail done right.
5 Steps to Create Endless Word-of-Mouth
While word-of-mouth can happen randomly—it can also be designed to become a steady and reliable advertising method for any business.
We outline a simple, actionable five-step framework for creating a referral system that works.
A Timeless Lesson from Bill Glazer
This month’s report includes a powerful excerpt from Bill Glazer’s book Outrageous Advertising That’s Outrageously Successful.
The lesson? Playing it safe is often the riskiest move of all. The excerpt reinforces why bold ideas, emotional connection, and memorable execution matter more than ever—especially in direct mail marketing.
Why Uncertainty Is Your Best Ally
Most marketers fear uncertainty. The best ones use it.
The January 2026 report closes with a fresh perspective on why uncertain markets create opportunity—and how adaptable, test-and-learn marketers can gain ground while others hesitate. If 2026 feels unpredictable, this section will reframe how you approach the year ahead.
Get the Full January 2026 Report (It’s Free!)
These highlights only scratch the surface.
The Direct Mail Insiders Monthly Report is packed with deeper insights, real-world examples, and strategic thinking you can use immediately—whether you’re a brand marketer, agency, printer, or mail service provider.
Download the full January 2026 Direct Mail Insiders Monthly Report for free and start the year with clarity, confidence, and ideas that actually work.
Brought to you by Direct Mail Insiders in collaboration with Who’s Mailing What!
