The world of advertising and marketing is constantly evolving. Whether you use social media, print marketing or beyond, advertising can often feel like a never-ending game of catch-up.
However, there is one area of marketing that stays consistent; Promotional gifts.
Often considered one of the first types of advertising, its popularity remains strong. Even now, it is likely that you possess several promotional items.
As of 2023, the UK promotional gift market is estimated to be worth £1 billion. So how does the promotional merchandise industry work, and how can it benefit you?
The term promotional products conjures up images of pens, pencils and mugs branded with logos on them. The truth is that any item that has a company's name, logo, slogan or message can be considered a promotional item.
Marketing products, when used right, can be combined with other ads to create a successful on/offline campaign. When it comes to branded merchandise, the world really is your oyster.
As branded merchandise is a physical gift, it can leave a longer impression on our target audience. Physical gifts are memorable and easier to recall. In fact, up to 85% of worldwide customers remember the brand that gave them a promotional item.
When gifting branded merchandise such as eco-friendly tote bags and tech gadgets, you are building a relationship with your target audience.
The functionality of promotional products ensures that they are regularly used, leading to increased exposure from workplaces to social gatherings.
Whether you are putting together a giveaway, complimentary gift or 'SWAG' bag, promotional gifts can increase awareness of your brand and services with both new and existing customers.
Every marketer dreams about a big-brand marketing budget. The reality is that we’re often working with a smaller budget and trying to get a bigger bang for our buck. Do not be deterred. Many effective, low-cost solutions will have a significant impact.
Best-sellers such as pens, tote bags and water bottles are sold at high volume for a lower price. The prices might be lower, but their impact is not. These are classic products that customers come back for time after time. To make the most out of your products, check out our list of common mistakes to avoid making.
While digital or tv ads have higher view rates, they only last a few minutes. There is also little control over who specifically sees it. On the other hand, nearly 87% of customers said they kept a promotional item for longer than a year.
That is a potential 12 months of personal one-to-one advertising. We always say you should think of your promotional products as mini advertisement boards. The goal is to get your 'billboard' in front of your customer (or prospective customer) at the right time and location. This comes down to finding a relevant item to your customer, brand and message.
Business cards are also mini billboards advertising you and your brand. The only thing is that your business cards can be dull or unremarkable and easily lost. Promo items offer broader coverage and increased visibility compared to traditional business cards.
Introducing yourself with a promotional product is far more memorable and personal. Promotional gifts can convey various information from QR codes, hashtags, logos and slogans. There are plenty of ways to express your brand's message.
Promotional items are tangible, so they are more likely to leave a lasting impact on recipients, unlike business cards which are easily misplaced and forgotten. Customers are 2.5 times more likely to think positively about tangible branded products than the ads. Common promotional products such as custom-branded pens, tote bags, or USB drives serve as functional items that people can use daily. This effectively keeps the brand message at the forefront of their minds.
When your giftee uses your branded items in public or shares them with friends and colleagues, they inadvertently extend your brand's reach to a wider audience.
Unlike business cards, which are typically exchanged in one-on-one interactions, promotional products have the potential to become conversation starters, sparking interest and curiosity among others who come across these items.
Are you ready to start using promotional items for your marketing strategy? Contact a member of our team today.
