Promotional Product Trends

All of us in the promotional merchandise industry know the value of using promotional products in marketing campaigns. In order to keep customers returning it is becoming increasingly important to build good relationships. Customer loyalty is not simply about rational decisions such as cost and time-frame; it is also about whether they felt that their business was valued. Promotional products can be used to enforce this belief. The trends within the promotional product industry have always leaned towards functional products for this very reason. Providing a customer with an item that not only portrays a company’s brand and image but that also simplifies the customer’s life are well received and they help to convey the sense that a company appreciates their customers. 

Here at Promotional Merchandise we have an excellent idea of the types of products companies are looking to source, gained from the quotes requested on our popular quick quotes service. So far this year, we have seen some very obvious trends.

Increasingly more popular are environmentally friendly promotional products. Customers today are more conscious of the environment and prefer to deal with businesses that contribute to a greener world and convey a message of corporate social responsibility. We are seeing many more quote requests for products like ‘bags for life’ and material shopper bags as well as recycled pens, pencils and notebooks.

We are also seeing a much larger demand for seasonal products such as umbrellas (although not so seasonal in this country!), flip flops, beach towels and sunglasses. Seasonal Christmas enquiries have increased recently, with the most popular products being Christmas crackers and baubles.

A trend that continues to gain momentum is branded USBs. Small, portable and functional; companies can guarantee that this promotional item will be used again and again by their customers, making for the perfect business gift or corporate giveaway. 

Another trend emerging in the industry is that of companies wishing to be more involved in the design process of their promotional products. By having input they can be sure that the products will convey the right brand image and message. All the suppliers on Promotional Merchandise value this engagement because companies are much more likely to respond favourably to the end product. 

If you need any ideas for promotional gifts click here for a great section on our website which gives the most popular options used in promotional marketing campaigns. Alternatively, simply fill in the quick quotes form with your requirements and let the suppliers come to you with advice and quotes.

Lauren Cayless White,
Editor

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