In a world dominated by digital shopping carts, endless scrolling and algorithm-driven recommendations, Nordstrom is bringing back its iconic Christmas catalog, reminding us that print still matters.
As mentioned in a recent New York Times article, the retailer is making a move that perfectly illustrates how print continues to play a vital role in modern marketing.
For decades, the Nordstrom catalog was more than a shopping guide; it was a seasonal ritual. A beloved holiday tradition that invites customers to browse, dream and circle wishlist items right from their living rooms. This revival isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a strategic move that highlights the power of print in a modern marketing mix.
The Power of Tangibility
The Nordstrom catalog isn’t simply a shopping guide; it’s an experience. Each glossy page, built anticipation and sparked imagination. In today’s fast paced digital world, that tactile connection has become a luxury, and that’s exactly why print stands out. The materials, layout, imagery, and finishing elevate the entire experience, transforming a marketing piece into a keepsake.
When customers can hold your brand in their hands, it creates a sense of trust and permanence that a digital ad alone can’t deliver. Print engages multiple senses; sight, touch and even smell, making it more memorable than a digital impression.
Print Adds Depth to Digital Strategies
Nordstrom’s catalog doesn’t replace digital; it enhances it. Print serves as the physical bridge that brings customers from the coffee table to the checkout page. With QR codes, and personalized URLs brands can link print directly to digital experiences, creating seamless integration across channels.
Print elevates brand perception, positioning a company as thoughtful and established. A beautifully crafted piece doesn’t get lost in an inbox; it gets saved, shared, and displayed. It becomes part of the customer’s space and your brand’s story.
This revival isn’t about replacing digital marketing; it’s about complementing it. A catalog can drive online traffic, reinforce brand identity, and keep a brand top of mind long after an email is deleted, or a post is scrolled past.
The Takeaway for Brands
Nordstrom’s catalog comeback is proof that print is still one of the most powerful tools in modern marketing. In a time where consumers crave authenticity and connection, tangible brand experiences cut through the noise.
At Prisma, we see this every day: brands that integrate print into their multichannel strategies don’t just reach audiences; they resonate with them. Whether it’s a personalized catalog, direct mail campaign, or branded packaging, print is how to bring your story home.
