Nearly 75% of marketing budgets for 2009 will either increase or remain the same as 2008. Only 25.4% of surveyed companies report a decrease in their marketing line items for the coming year.  Of the 211 companies surveyed, a surprising 31.1% intend to boost their marketing spend.

Topping the list of online tactics they plan to use were broadcast email (68.3%) and website development (66.3%).  50% plan to increase search engine optimization, 46.6% with online video and social media increases.  Social media increased from 26% to 46.6% from 2008 to 2009 plans.

The survey results showed a vast contrast from those increasing to those decreasing.  Over 45% of those increasing their budgets plan to do so over 15%.  Likewise, over 45% of those decreasing their budgets plan to lower them over 15%.

And almost 60% of those lowering their marketing budgets did so in response to the economic crisis.

Customer acquisition is the top marketing goal (62.2%), with customer retention (20.6%), and brand awareness (12.4%).

* Disclaimer:  Main-1-Media has reviewed the source content for this article (BtoB, Chicago, Ill: Dec. 8, 2008, Vol. 93 No. 18) and the findings do not reflect or represent the findings of the source.  For more information on the source please visit them online at www.btobonline.com.

After our recent 8 days in beautiful Nicaragua, we are convinced of several things.

1. The people of Nica are wonderful and kind. Safety and health concerns were very much false alarms.

2. The opportunity for business development is  welcomed by the entire country.  It is a great investment for entrepreneurs.

3. Poverty and needs in education and healthcare surround this emerging country.

Main-1-Media, in cooperation with LandDesign and Grupa Mariana, will continue working to provide education and healthcare solutions for the children and families of Nicaragua.

If you would like to know more about these efforts please contact rick@main1media.com.

Minority leader Rep. Brian Bosma, along with other elected officials and party leaders, joined us at the Main-1-Media offices near Castleton for a family-friendly fundraiser.   Nearly 100 clients, friends and families of the Main1 staff turned out to raise thousands of dollars for Republican House candidates running in 2008.

Special thanks to everyone that attended and contributed.