Plain English The rise and fall of Publishers Clearing House
Nov 10, 2025
Discover the journey of Publishers Clearing House, from its 1950s beginnings with magazine subscriptions to the thrill of massive sweepstakes. Learn about the iconic Prize Patrol and how eye-catching marketing tactics captivated audiences. Explore the decline triggered by internet trends and lawsuits leading to bankruptcy, leaving winners without promised payouts. Hear emotional stories from former winners grappling with unexpected financial hardships, alongside reflections on the company's lasting cultural legacy.
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Direct Mail Built A Publishing Powerhouse
- Publishers Clearing House used direct mail to replace door-to-door sales and sell millions of magazine subscriptions.
- The company earned hefty commissions by offering many publishers' titles in one mail package.
Sweepstakes As A Marketing Engine
- Sweepstakes became a marketing tool to get people to open mailers without charging for entry.
- Combining free sweepstakes with a sales pitch made the campaign highly profitable.
The Prize Patrol Spectacle
- Publishers Clearing House created the famous Prize Patrol that surprised winners with oversized checks and cameras.
- Those televised moments became iconic ads that boosted the company's brand and reach.