Trends in the promo product world

The Promotional Products Industry influences and is influenced by, certain trends. Increasing awareness by end users, as well as businesses becoming more accountable of their environmental impact has contributed to particular trends in the industry.

Eco-Friendly, or Green Products are increasing in popularity. Manufacturers and clients are constantly seeking ways to minimise their carbon footprint. Phrases such as socially responsible, renewable, sustainable, biodegradable, organic and recycled are increasingly popular ways to describe the environmental or social benefits of some merchandise. However, it is important to be aware of misinformation or lack of education as to what actually constitutes an eco-friendly product. For example, many plastics are not able to be recycled and many people don’t recognise the difference between recycled and recyclable material. However, the more a product is likely to be reused by a consumer can also be of some long term environmental benefit. Whilst eco-friendly products are a great idea, be cautious about over-using, or misusing them. If your organisation has made no other moves towards eco-friendly initiatives (or has no plans to continue this in the future)  it might send a mixed message to your recipients.

TIP:  Eco-friendly Examples include TCLs Hessian Jute Bag, RPET Cap and Visor, 3D Neoprene Coaster to eliminate wasted napkins and Hessian Coaster.

Increasing awareness about Product Safety has lead to higher quality control of products. Organisations are increasingly aware of potential hazardous elements in promotional products, for example phthalates, calcium and lead may be found in cheap promotional products. Whilst historically many organisations were driven solely by price, highly publicised cases of promotional products which have caused harm through lack of safety measures has meant people and organisations are rightfully demanding products that strictly adhere to safety standards.

Technology is another important trend. Just as technology is enabling manufacturers to create more sophisticated promotional products, consumers are also more technologically savvy. This means products complementing electronic devices such as Laptop Sleeves, iPhone Pouches & Arm Bands, Camera Cases, Mouse pads and GPS Cases are increasingly welcomed. Technologically advanced products are impressive, though typically more costly promotional incentives. There are also more instances of promotional items being imprinted with a company’s website address, encouraging consumers to interact with their organisation online. If gifts are particularly savvy technologically or in supporting technology it is likely consumers, particularly in younger demographics will value and use them regularly. However, it is important to be aware that a promotional product at the cutting edge of technology today might appear outdated in as little as 6 months. E.g. promotional USBs will continue to decrease in use due to increased smart phone capabilities.

The trend of presenting and appreciating quality products with a high perceived value has developed – often a small increase in spend per item can raise consumers’ perceptions of a company.  Research indicates that when a consumer is given a faulty or extremely cheap promotional product they may connect that poor item or experience to that company, leaving a negative perception. Whilst in the past consumers were often happy with any free product, an abundance of inexpensive products with little intrinsic value has left consumers far more appreciative of good quality promotional products which serve a purpose. The best products engage with the consumer, challenge or amuse them and have a real purpose and use. Technological advances have made higher quality products easily possible. There is also improved quality control by suppliers, with manufacturing facilities taking more care to ensure products manufactured are in line with current standards.

Organisations are more aware of the value of allowing increased lead time for products. By giving sufficient time to consider the benefits of products businesses can ensure they have optimum time and opportunity to find the right product at the best price. Increased lead time can also save on the costs of the product, ensuring the most cost effective freight (particularly when being manufactured overseas). This ties in with the reality promotional product distributors are being acknowledged as an important extension of organisations’ marketing departments with knowledge and ideas rather than merely the means by which to purchase the item required. If budgets and lead times are considered from the beginning of the promotion, suppliers and distributors can pass on advantages such as reduced minimum order quantity and cost and time efficient manufacturing.

Even in tough financial times promotional products for pets are popular. Pet-centric promotional items, such as pet rugs and pet balls are a cost effective way for people to spoil their pets and spread positive brand messages. Despite many societal changes, people’s relationships with their pets remain stronger than ever and pets are valued members of many households. Promotional items aimed at pets are a fun way to remind consumers that a business is animal and family friendly.

Retail trends such as what is fashionable in clothing or technology are closely monitored and acknowledged by Promotional Product Professionals. Consumers are appreciating retail-inspired products that take into account contemporary fashions and desires. More attention is being paid to sizing of apparel, moving away from one-size-fits-all apparel to enable a range of sizing and styles.

Gifts that bring a unique offering, including those trends listed above may help make a promotional campaign truly savvy and reflective of current consumer desires and the environment the business is operating in. 

Tip – The Creative Locker is very trend savvy, offering a great range of eco products e.g. 3D Coaster & tech-savvy products e.g. Hat with LED lights.