Hints for ordering Promotional Merchandise

Prominent logo, message, slogan or website URL on product. Often there are several options and the most obvious location is not always best. For instance on a mouse pad, the centre may not be the best option for a company logo and address details as this area is typically covered by the mouse. Effective placement of key information will help ensure maximum benefits from a product.

Simple but engaging. A product does not need to overwhelm to impress users. If the design or artwork is too complicated it may be confusing for the consumer and harm the building of a clear brand message for a company. This is also important because the item is likely to leave an impression on many people (who may only have a moment for the item to engage with them), not just the recipient.

Colour choice. Typically bright, vibrant colours have an impact, as they break away from corporate shades such as greys. They will also ensure that particular product is noticed in a crowded room! However, this is only beneficial if it does not contradict a company message or portray an image that isn’t desirable for a business. Classic corporate colours can bring a sense of professionalism and dignity and may be particularly suitable if designed for use by corporate users in an office environment.

Link brand with product. Try to choose a product that has some correlation to your brand, as this will give maximum impact, particularly in terms of when, where and how you will be remembered by a consumer e.g. a beverage provider giving away customised stubby holders. However, generic items such as t-shirts can also have maximum effect if they have a custom design to relate back to the company in question. Linking the product with a campaign, memorable catch phrase or company message will help the item signify more than just a logo or symbol.

Get quotes in writing. This will ensure there is no confusion about what is included or not included in a price e.g. freight, GST, sample charges, and set-up costs. Also enquire about payment charges (e.g. credit card surcharge) and whether payment is required upfront. If you are getting quotes on several products before making a decision, check how long the quote is valid for and ensure the quoted figures are still accepted when placing the order.

Placing the order

1. After choosing the Promotional Products Provider and product desired you can begin the ordering process.
2. Provide an official purchase order stating agreed pricing, as well as anything else of importance e.g. desired lead time, decoration option and delivery address.
3. Give your artwork to the provider, as per minimum requirements. They may require you to provide your artwork using their artwork templates which dictate where artwork can fit on a product, indicating bleed and outlines. 300dpi artwork is preferable to ensure the artwork will remain at a high quality on the promotional item. Use artwork template (if provided) to demonstrate exactly where you want your artwork positioned and provide PMS colour code to ensure the closest possible match.
4. Typically the organisation will offer you a tangible sample of the product desired before mass-manufacturing the order, and/or a visual mock-up of how the promotional product will appear. Mock-ups are a time-efficient way of ensuring the product is being manufactured as desired and need to be approved and signed off by the organisation before the product will be manufactured.
5. The Promotional product will then be manufactured and distributed as required.

Tip – The Creative Locker has a range of patented and exclusive products to guarantee you a unique product sure to impress!