The marketing communications giant hosted a launch event at the Sydney Opera House today, where it revealed that its Local Direct Network is entering the final pilot stage before being launched.

The offering is based on an online portal that automates the creation of a marketing campaign for SME customers.

Users can specify the design, print run and distribution area for their campaign before the files are sent to the printer for printing. Distribution is done by Salmat’s network of contract walkers.

Salmat chief executive Grant Harrod (pictured) said: “With a few clicks, they can trigger an order and marketing magically appears in their customers letterboxes.”

He said the service was “extremely competitive” compared with traditional alternatives, such as buying ad space in the local paper. He added that Salmat would still be making “good margins” on any print work contracted out.

Small business expert Linda Hailey, who also spoke at the event, said: “What do small businesses want? They need help to develop their business and they need help to develop their marketing. “

She said Salmat’s service “takes the mystery and megabucks out of marketing”.

The launch follows around a year of planning, including a pilot program in Victoria.

Read our View From The Top with Grant Harrod

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