What’s Working in Direct Mail Right Now?

March 31, 2026 • Posted by Michelle

The April 2026 edition of the Direct Mail Insiders Monthly Report is now available, featuring a fresh mix of industry thinking, campaign breakdowns, and perspectives from professionals working hands-on in direct mail. Download the full report for free below.

Every edition is built to give you something useful—whether that’s a new angle to bring to clients, a concept to test, or a better way to position the value of mail. Here’s what’s included this month:


AI in Direct Mail Marketing — with John Miglautsch

AI continues to be a major topic across marketing, but John Miglautsch brings it back to what matters for direct mail.

In this month’s cover story, he shares why he sees direct mail as a critical piece in unlocking stronger AI-driven results. Drawing from years of studying how machine learning has been applied (and where it’s fallen short), this piece offers a grounded perspective on how AI and mail can work together more effectively.


Can Consumers Afford What You’re Selling?

Affordability is playing a bigger role in response than many marketers realize.

This article looks at how shifting consumer budgets are influencing engagement—and how that impacts the way offers need to be structured, presented, and supported. For printers and mail service providers, it’s a useful lens for guiding client conversations and setting expectations.


Mailing of the Month: Chrisad Dental Marketing (Corte Madera, CA)

A strong example of direct mail in action.

This featured campaign highlights how a dental marketing company is using mail to connect with its audience and drive measurable results. It’s a practical case you can reference when discussing campaign ideas or showing what’s working right now.


Beyond the Mailbox: Competing on Price vs. Competing on Meaning

Price-based competition is common—but it’s not the only path.

Using the grocery industry as a reference point, this piece explores how brands differentiate beyond discounts. It’s a useful reminder of the role messaging plays in performance, and how positioning can influence not just response, but long-term customer value.


Call Notes: Doubling Day

A concept that’s generating interest across the industry.

This section breaks down what “Doubling Day” is, how it fits into campaign strategy, and why it’s worth paying attention to—especially when thinking about timing, frequency, and maximizing impact.


The Send-Off: Why Friendly Rivalries Are a Secret Growth Weapon

Growth doesn’t always come from big changes—sometimes it’s driven by internal dynamics.

This closing piece looks at how friendly competition, whether within teams or across organizations, can push performance, spark new ideas, and keep momentum going.


Why Take a Look at This Month’s Report?

Because staying competitive in direct mail means staying informed—and being able to bring fresh thinking to the table.

The Direct Mail Insiders Monthly Report is built around real campaigns, real challenges, and real conversations happening across the industry. It’s a resource you can use to sharpen your approach, support your clients, and keep your work moving forward.

Download the April edition for free and see what’s driving direct mail right now.