7 Ways Local News Can Offer Free Publicity for Plant Shops

Local news stations are constantly looking for interesting stories. Even if you don’t tune in to TV, millions still do, making it a powerful platform to promote your plant store. 

With the right approach, you can turn their airtime into a massive opportunity for free publicity. This strategy is especially effective for plant retailers who offer unique greenery or gardening supplies to draw more customers into their stores.

1. Send Press Releases to Local Stations

Press releases are a good way to get people to know about your plant business. Making a press release is the best way to inform all local news outlets about an event, an expansion, or the start of something new.

Take Note: If you write a good press release, you might get an interview or a show feature within days.

This is a chance for stores to show off their unique items. Tell the station in your area about new products, events happening in stores, or holiday displays that fit with larger trends.

Say you're selling eco-friendly home decor like Moss Amigos' moss balls. Here are some ideas you could pitch: 

• “How to decorate your home for spring with sustainable and budget-friendly products.”

• “Unique, low-maintenance decor ideas to refresh your living space.”

💡 Pro Tip: Focus on crafting a catchy headline and include details that tie the story to your local community.

2. Post Newsworthy Content on Social Media

Share insights or trending topics related to your business. Plant shops and flower stores can highlight the rise of eco-friendly decor or low-maintenance plant options. 

Post about moss balls, air plants, or floral arrangements as unique gifts or decor. 

Sharing interesting and newsworthy content can also get you free publicity if local reporters see your posts and choose to write about your story.

🎯 Action Step: Share simple, eye-catching photos or videos. Showcase creative plant displays, DIY tutorials, or behind-the-scenes shots. Tag local news stations to boost visibility.

3. Invest in a Small Ad Campaign

 A small ad spot with your local news station can have a big impact. Even a modest budget can introduce your business and unique products to the local audience. It also builds goodwill with the station’s team, making them more likely to feature your business when they need story ideas.

4. Invite Reporters to Your Store

Invite journalists to see your plant business in action. Host an event, like a DIY workshop or an in-store demonstration, and let them capture it. This gives them a firsthand experience, making crafting an authentic and engaging story easier.

5. Use Seasonal Topics to Grab Attention

Tie your ideas to the season to make them more relevant and appealing. Examples include:

• “Unique, eco-friendly gifts for Mother’s Day.”

• “Simple tips to refresh your home for spring with plants.

Seasonal stories are a favorite for local news stations, and tying your products to timely trends makes them more appealing.

Must Read: Discover Everyone's Favorite Season for Florals

6. Pitch Uplifting Story Ideas

Offer topics that inspire curiosity or solve everyday problems. Focus on how your products help customers in creative or unexpected ways. Ideas could include:

• “Why adding greenery to your space can boost your mood.”

• “Unusual plant care hacks everyone should know.”

• “How to choose the right plants for your lifestyle.”

The goal is to present helpful, engaging stories that stand out from typical seasonal pitches.

7. Analyze the News for Inspiration

Watch your local news for trends and how you can relate them to your business. For instance, if they cover a story about eco-friendly living or unique holiday gift ideas, pitch your store as a source for sustainable and creative decor items.

Why This Works

Local news stations love community stories—they help them connect with their viewers. If your plant business offers something unique or interesting, timely pitches can easily catch their attention. It’s a great way to bring in more customers while getting your brand in front of a wider audience. Everybody wins!

Inspired by Michael Fiore’s insightful tips on utilizing local news stations for free publicity. Read his original post here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does free publicity mean?

Free publicity refers to using news outlets, social media, or word-of-mouth to promote your business without paying for advertising. It involves sharing positive stories about your company, products, or events through external sources, such as media coverage or press mentions.

What are the 3 types of publicity?

The three types of publicity are coverage in news outlets such as TV, newspapers, and online media; press releases, which are official announcements about events or milestones; and events, such as community gatherings or workshops, that attract media attention.

What are the benefits of free publicity?

Free publicity increases credibility by earning trust through media endorsements, helps build relationships with new customers, reassures existing clients by reinforcing their confidence in your business, and helps your business stand out in a competitive market.

References:

DMN Editorial Team. (2023, December 28). Local TV advertising: the secret weapon for driving results - DMNEWS. DMNews. https://www.dmnews.com/local-tv-advertising-the-secret-weapon-for-driving-results/