Periodically, readers ask us about the procedure for publishing new product announcements, promotions and company news in Industrial Distribution. In fact, in the past few months, the questions seem to have increased.

With that in mind, here are some tips for sending your information to ID. First, let me emphasize that there is no charge for running your product releases. That's a common misconception. Second, don't write a book about your new product; instead, make it short and to the point, outlining the new features of the product.

As strange as it seems, many product releases don't include a contact name. Even worse, they often list the wrong telephone number.

We have a new policy here at ID regarding new product press releases. Effective immediately, these releases will be accepted by e-mail only. Text may be formatted in the e-mail body or as a Word attachment. Product photos must be digital TIFF, JPEG or EPS files, at least 2.5" x 2.5", 300 dpi resolution (downloaded Internet photos will not be accepted), and sent as an attachment to the e-mail. CMYK color format is preferred, and all color will run "as is."

Please send press releases to industrialdistribution@reedbusiness.com. If you have any questions, please call Kimberly Griffiths at (617) 558-4722.

If you are sending a release about a new hire, a new promotion, or an award your company has received, please send the press release and the photo to ayumiller@reedbusiness.com or to our home office, 275 Washington Street, Newton, MA 02458.

If you have an editorial suggestion, news tips or questions regarding editorial policy, please e-mail me at jkeough@reedbusiness.com.

Many businesses today don't know the value of publicity and what it can do to their profitability. For example, if you're featured in an article in ID or another business journal, make sure you get reprints of the article to send to your customers. It can be an important merchandising tool. Also, send a news release about the article to your local or regional newspaper. It's free and it's great publicity for your company.

As a former business writer and editor for a large newspaper, I can tell you that many publications look for that type of information.

Promote your company and give it the publicity it deserves. It makes good business sense.

jkeough@reedbusiness.com