Promotional Merchandise inspiration & trends

From flip flops that leave your company message in the sand to branded charging stations for busy execs on the go, there is no limit to the choices available when it comes to promotional merchandise.

So far 2014 has seen the trend for tech accessories continue, from iPad covers and smart phone stands to mini speakers and earphones. This trend is set to grow and product ranges are continually expanding and developing to meet the demand.

The UK is a nation of tea and coffee drinkers so the popularity for branded drinkware is a constant. With the summer almost upon us many companies are also ordering branded glasses and water bottles. Mason jar tumblers are a big trend in America and one that, I think, we will start to see developing in the UK, as products with a retro or vintage look tend to do well with young adults.

We have started seeing more quote requests for cooler bags in the last couple of years, perhaps because we enjoyed a pretty good summer last year and hopefully will this year. Cooler bags are a great, versatile product that will be taken out and about on picnics, BBQs, days out and to events and festivals so you can see why they are gaining in popularity.

Bags that act as space savers or organisers have caught my eye lately. I’ve seen duffel bags that expand into shelving units and can be hung from a door hook, as well as car boot organisers that are collapsible when not in use. Shopper bags and messenger bags are a staple promotional product but we are finding that the range of designs available are developing and becoming more fashion led to appeal to a wider audience.

We are also seeing a lot more companies opting for bespoke items to fit in with their integrated marketing campaigns, for example, David Lloyd’s raindrop shaped hand warmers, McCain’s personalised plates and Brazilian-themed sharing bowls, or the well-known meerkat toys.

Trends within the promotional merchandise industry are continually developing so it can be a little hard to keep up. If you are stuck, social media can provide a wealth of inspiration for promotional product ideas. You can keep up to date on what the current trends are in promotional products and even pantone colours. Plus, you can see which products get the most repins, likes or retweets and by who.

You can also ask the experts for help and advice by requesting a quote via our free quick quote service. We will put you in touch with leading UK promotional merchandise suppliers who can provide ideas for the best products for your campaigns and your audience.

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