You’ve got a big event coming up. You have a budget, and you need to hit a particular target. You know corporate swag will help you achieve your goals, but you’re unsure what to do next. What kind of swag will resonate with your audience? Who can help you create custom swag with my logo? How do I get the corporate swag in time for my event? These are just some of the questions that can make you feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, promotional product companies can help you answer these questions to alleviate the stress of your upcoming event. This blog will shed light on the significance of corporate swag and share how working with a promotional products company can help you achieve your objectives.
As you’ll see, Giftpack’s solution of company branded swag can help you address your objectives, such as finding information on companies that produce or distribute promotional products and custom swag.
What are Promotional Products?
Promotional products, often called promo products or swag, are those branded products that companies give consumers, usually for free. Think of that pen with a logo, the tote bag you got at a conference, or the coffee mug you use every morning—these are all promotional items. The idea behind them is pretty simple: by putting a company’s logo or message on something useful, the brand stays in front of people, reminding them of that company every time they use it.
The Strategic Role of Promotional Items in Marketing
But these aren't just random freebies. Promotional items are a strategic marketing tool. They help companies increase brand awareness cost-effectively and impactfully.
Consumers love free stuff, and when they receive something useful, they tend to keep and use it. This means the brand's message is repeatedly seen in homes, offices, and public spaces.
The Impact of Promotional Items on Brand Recall and Customer Action
What makes promotional items so effective? Well, the numbers speak for themselves. A staggering 86% of people can remember the brand on a promotional item they've received, even if it was given to them years ago.
And it’s not just about recall; these items also drive action. About 85% of people who receive a promotional item do business with the company that gave it to them. That’s a powerful return on a relatively small investment.
The Ubiquity and Influence of Everyday Promotional Products
These items are everywhere, too. Just look around your kitchen or office—chances are you have at least one promotional product in each room. They serve as a constant, subtle reminder of the brand that gave them to you, keeping that company at the top of your mind when it’s time to make a purchase or choose a service.
Whether it’s a USB drive, a tote bag, or even a simple pen, these promotional items do much more than you might think. They’re not just giveaways; they’re a smart way for businesses to stay visible and relevant, turning a small gift into a big opportunity for brand growth.
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What Is A Promotional Product Company?
A promotional product company specializes in creating branded items to help other businesses market themselves. Do you know those:
- Pens
- Mugs
- T-shirts
- Tote bags
With company logos? Those are classic examples of promotional products. The idea is straightforward: companies put their brand or message on everyday items that people use, which helps keep their name front and center in the minds of potential customers.
Customization Options for Promotional Products
These companies offer a wide range of products, from office supplies to apparel to tech gadgets, and they can customize these items with:
- Logos
- Slogans
- Any other branding
Business wants. Branded pens are a popular marketing strategy because they give businesses a tangible way to reach their audience. If someone uses a branded pen daily, they’re constantly reminded of the company that gave it to them. It’s a subtle yet effective way to build brand awareness.
Partnering with Promotional Product Companies for Effective Branding
Promotional product companies work with businesses of all sizes, from small local shops to large corporations. They help clients choose the right products that align with their brand and marketing goals and then handle the production, customization, and, often, the distribution of these items. Whether for:
- Trade show
- Corporate event
- General marketing
Promotional products are a key tool in the marketing toolkit, and the companies specializing in them are experts at ensuring businesses get noticed.
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• Company Swag Ideas • Promotional Marketing • Conference Swag • Best Promotional Products • Event Marketing Strategies • Cheap Swag Ideas • Giveaway Ideas For Events • Marketing Products For Small Business • Swag Items For Employees
19 Best Promotional Products Companies For Your Marketing Products
1. Giftpack
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
2. VistaPrint
VistaPrint is a popular printing service known for its wide selection of promotional products and gifts. In addition to offering affordable products, VistaPrint excels in customization.
The company’s online design tool lets you personalize products with intricate designs and exact color matches, helping to maintain brand consistency.
3. Zazzle Zazzle
Takes a unique approach to promotional products. Instead of offering standard items that might not align with your brand, Zazzle has a vast selection of products that you can customize.
This allows you to create distinctive swag that reflects your business’s personality. The company also has an easy-to-use online design tool that makes customization accessible for everyone.
- Swagger Swagger
It is a promotional product company with sustainable swag at the forefront of its mission. The company’s curated selection features high-quality products that are both stylish and eco-friendly, helping businesses reduce their environmental impact. Swagger’s customization options are also detailed and varied, allowing you to create truly unique branded goods.
5. EverythingBranded
EverythingBranded focuses on innovative products that help businesses stand out. The company features various promotional merchandise, including eco-friendly options and tech products that appeal to modern audiences.
EverythingBranded also prioritizes quality and customer service, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
6. Swag.com
Swag.com’s platform has a straightforward, efficient ordering system. Its focus on an automated buying experience is a boon for time-pressed clients.
This efficiency speeds up the process and makes it more accessible for those less experienced in ordering custom promotional products. The ability to quickly find products, upload designs, and see mockups is a clear advantage in a market where time is often of the essence.
7. Sticker Mule
Sticker Mule focuses on delivering high-quality custom stickers and labels, a niche yet essential aspect of promotional product branding. Its specialty is transforming ordinary designs into vibrant, durable stickers that withstand various environmental factors.
This durability is not just about longevity; it’s about maintaining the visual appeal of a brand’s message over time, whether on a laptop, water bottle or storefront.
8. Deluxe Deluxe
It is a reliable promotional product vendor with a wide selection of products in numerous categories. It has flexible personalization options, with free samples and rush production available for some products.
Shipping is available within the USA and internationally. Prices are competitive, and the ordering and checkout process is simple and intuitive. On the downside, the customer service isn’t as good as we expected, and there are additional setup fees with each product you order.
9. Positive Promotions
Positive Promotions offers a seemingly endless variety of products for businesses and individuals to personalize. Their prices are reasonable, with discounts available on bulk orders. Use the Product Finder to choose the perfect swag gift or browse by category. Personalizing is a hallmark of Positive Promotions, and a basic level of personalization is free.
You can customize products with your logo or theme at an additional cost. Positive Promotions sells popular merchandise, including:
- Apparel
- Drinkware
- Pens
- Pencils
- Backpacks
- Conference giveaways
Their products suit special events, thank-you gifts, and promotions. They are dedicated to customer satisfaction and will refund or replace items if you’re unhappy with your purchase.
10. 4Customize
4Customize offers a small range of essential promotional products, including bags and drinkware. All products are customized and shipped from China, and the company website needs to be more consistent regarding shipping, shipping costs, and the returns policy.
Customer service is quite limited, and there’s no built-in design tool. Its prices are also slightly higher than many alternatives, and nothing can make the company stand out. We can’t recommend using 4Customize.
11. Customon
Customon offers a range of personalizable items, including clothing, accessories, and a small selection of other products. The design process is relatively straightforward, and you will benefit from no minimum order quantity.
The high prices and extended shipping times will put many people off, as will the need for true promotional product offerings. But if you’re looking for a small number of branded items, Customon may be the perfect option.
12. LogoMaker
LogoMaker lets you design your logos through a guided process. Beginners will find it easy to create a logo using one of their templates and adjust it until it looks right. For those who want a more comprehensive service, LogoMaker sells packages that include onsite designers helping you create your images.
Once you’ve designed your logo, LogoMaker lets you view your order on a range of merchandise to see how it will look. LogoMaker offers a money-back guarantee within a month of ordering and reduced pricing on bulk orders. Product costs and shipping fees are reasonable, making LogoMaker a great choice for small businesses on a budget.
13. Custom Ink
Custom Ink has been around since 1999. This company was formed after three college friends decided they wanted something more than what Wall Street had to offer. These friends set out to create a more meaningful existence that would give them heart.
The friends found that heart by helping countless companies create successful branding strategies. This vendor offers some of the biggest brands for promotional products, such as:
- Nike
- Columbia
- The North Face
- Adidas
The platform provides many product category options, from blankets and apparel to gifts and games.
14. 4imprint
4imprint has been offering promotional products since 1987. Customers ordered directly through a catalog or toll-free call when this company started. Now, ordering promotional products is as simple as placing an order on the company’s website.
Clients opt for 4imprint because the company offers various product types and name brands. With this vendor, you can choose from brands such as PopSockets, Igloo, Under Armor, and Moleskine. The company offers a full range of products, such as apparel, drinkware, bags, and technology.
15. PromoShop Boasting
PromoShop, an advertising agency with a creative culture and marketing talent, is an excellent pick for businesses looking for promotional product companies. The company leverages its culturally diverse team to offer some of the world’s best brands.
Businesses can carry out smart, bold, and effective marketing campaigns. PromoShop offers:
- Apparel
- Bags
- Delectable treats
- Healthcare essentials
- Home items
You will also have a vast selection of computer accessories, sports and outdoor products, travel items, and calendars.
16. SwagUp
SwagUp launched in 2017 and has since grown into one of the fastest-growing companies offering promotional products. The platform is unique in allowing businesses to create swag packs, choose from preset ones, or order promotional products in bulk.
SwagUp is a one-stop place to create, automate, and distribute accessories and gear for employees and clients that they will want to use or wear. This site consistently ranks high among the best promotional product companies. Buying from this vendor allows you access to customizable clothing, bags, drinkware, office supplies, and more.
17. Packed With Purpose
Packed With Purpose is a different kind of promotional product company. This platform focuses on creating social impacts through gift-giving to foster meaningful relationships. Whether a business is looking for gifts for:
- Clients
- Employees
- Prospects
Packed With Purpose has a quality solution. This platform began in 2016 and has since focused on offering the best products from America and beyond. This vendor offers many promotional products, such as food gift boxes, keepsake journals, and personalized tumblers.
18. Clothes2Order
Clothes2Order first launched in 2000 and has helped over 250,000 teams show unity and pride through clothing. If you are looking for the best apparel promotional product company, check out Clothes2Order.
This platform understands that branding clothes is not just about uniforms and workwear but also about creating a brand identity that unites and inspires a team. This vendor offers a vast array of clothing options, from different styles of shirts to jackets, caps, and hoodies, so this is a great option for personalized clothing.
19. Spreadshirt
Though the name implies that Spreadshirt only deals in apparel, it offers over 250 products printed on demand. Whether you’re looking for employee uniforms or promotional products, this vendor covers you.
Partnering with this promotional products company can make your brand stand out. On this site, you’ll find a wide selection of workwear, from aprons and shirts to hats and pants. Yet, the company’s offerings do not stop there, as you can also customize:
- Phone cases
- Buttons
- Bandanas
- Mugs
- Teddy bears
How To Choose The Best Promotional Products Companies
The last thing you want is to spend your entire marketing budget on a gadget your clients will regift or never use. The first step in finding the best products is to find the best promotional product company.
This involves considering several factors to ensure your brand’s message is effectively communicated through high-quality, relevant merchandise. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you make an informed choice:
1. Essential Features
Product Quality
You don’t want to give away flimsy promotional products that’ll be tossed as soon as they find the nearest garbage. Pay attention to the longevity and appearance of the items the company offers. Finally, the quality of your promotional items matters. 72% of customers believe that the promo's quality equals the company's reputation. I
Investing in well-crafted, durable products ensures that your items withstand wear and tear, reflecting positively on your brand. To do this, look for companies that provide samples and have a reputation for using durable materials. High-quality products leave a lasting impression and are more likely to be used by recipients, which helps extend brand exposure.
Customization Capabilities
Each brand has unique needs. Opt for companies that offer extensive customization options, such as various printing techniques, color choices, and branding opportunities. This flexibility allows for a more tailored approach to your promotional strategy.
Order and Delivery Flexibility
Whether you need a small batch for a niche event or a large order for a major campaign, the company should efficiently accommodate different scales. Check its turnaround times and reliability in meeting deadlines.
2. Product Range
Diversity in Product Types
Buying a variety of products, from traditional items such as pens and notebooks to innovative tech gadgets or eco-friendly alternatives, gives you more creative freedom to align the product with your campaign. A diverse range makes it easy to choose items that truly resonate with your target audience. Buying all your promotional products in one place can often save on shipping.
Trend Responsiveness
Companies that stay ahead of trends can offer products that promote your brand and appeal to contemporary consumer preferences, increasing the likelihood of your promotional items being used and appreciated.
3. Ease of Use
Ease of Ordering Process
The best promotional products companies offer a user-friendly online platform to browse products, customize your order, and track the process. A seamless experience from selection to delivery reduces the likelihood of errors and saves time.
Design Support
Access to professional design support from the promotional products company can be invaluable, especially for businesses without a dedicated design team. This service ensures that the final product looks polished and professionally represents your brand. Ideally, you’ll get proof before your product goes to print.
4. After-Sales Support
Customer Service
Responsive and helpful customer service can avoid a lot of heartache and stress, especially when dealing with custom orders. Look for companies with positive reviews regarding their support, both pre- and post-purchase. You can also head to the company’s Instagram page and check out its tagged images, which should give you a good idea about how well-received its products are.
Problem Resolution
Order issues can arise. A company’s willingness and ability to quickly resolve problems, such as delivery mishaps or product defects, proves its commitment to customer satisfaction.
What Are Some Important Points To Consider When Ordering Promotional Products?
Customize Your Swag for Maximum Impact
Swag has the most impact when customized to suit your gift recipient’s unique tastes. One of the first things to consider when ordering promotional swag is the customizable space on each item. Ensure your design or logo fits the item you’re personalizing.
Some services offer little space to customize the merchandise, and your logo needs to be clearer. Choose a supplier that gives you the most flexibility to customize color, logo placement, and more.
Quality Is Key
The promotional products you give away represent your brand — and you don’t want to be perceived as cheap or low-quality. Ensure your products are well-made and sturdy and will be with their recipient for a long time.
Think about it: would you prefer they toss the pen with your logo on it after a week or keep using that awesome thermos they got from you for years to come? Exactly. Make sure people associate your brand with quality goods. Bad swag can devalue your brand.
Always Order Samples
The best way to make sure the quality of your branded swag is right is to order sample prints before placing a bulk order. Be sure that the company will provide you with a virtual mockup to approve, followed by a physical sample. Holding the actual item in your hands gives you a better sense of what your future customers will think of your brand.
Giftpack’s Corporate Gifting Service
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
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Are Promotional Products Effective?
Promotional Products Pack a Punch in Marketing
The digital era has changed the world, so businesses are now fighting every step of the way for customer retention. Chasing a larger ROI doesn’t have to involve endless TV ads. Promotional products still offer high ROI in marketing due to their impact on the public.
According to an ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute) case study from 2019, branded merchandise can still impress consumers. The study showed that they are almost 2.5 times more likely to think positively about tangible branded products than the ads. Promotional products can remain in the recipient’s possession for about seven months on average. As long as they are well made and useful to the target audience, your branded merchandise could keep generating.
What Are Some Of The Most Effective Promotional Products?
Phone Cases: The Ultimate Phone Accessory
Phone cases are practical and personal, protecting devices while offering a canvas for your company’s logo or design. They come in various styles, including:
- Slim
- Rugged
- Wallet cases
Customizing phone cases with your brand’s logo ensures that your company is visible every time the phone is used, making them a highly effective promotional item.
Waterproof Phone Pouches: Protect What Matters
Waterproof phone pouches protect devices from water, dust, and dirt. They are especially useful for:
- Outdoor activities
- Travel
- Beach trips
Look for pouches with secure closures and transparent fronts to allow phone use while protected. Customizing them with your company’s logo ensures that your brand is associated with practicality and protection in various environments.
Branded Socks: The Fun Gift That Everyone Loves
Branded socks are a fun and comfortable swag item that adds a playful touch to your gifts. They can feature creative designs, patterns, or your company’s logo, making them functional and fashionable.
Opt for high-quality materials and various sizes to ensure they are enjoyable to wear. Customizing socks adds a unique element to your swag collection and enhances brand visibility.
Custom Aprons: For the Chef in the Office
Custom aprons are perfect for employees who enjoy cooking or grilling. They provide a practical way to protect clothing while showcasing your company’s logo.
Look for aprons made from durable, easy-to-clean materials, including features like adjustable straps and pockets. Customizing them with your brand’s design makes them a functional and appreciated gift for cooking enthusiasts.
Eco-Friendly Notebooks: For the Eco-Conscious Employee
Eco-friendly notebooks are made from sustainable materials like recycled paper or bamboo, promoting environmental responsibility. They provide a stylish and practical way to take notes or jot down ideas.
Customizing them with your company’s logo reinforces your commitment to sustainability while offering a useful item. For added appeal, choose notebooks with high-quality paper and durable covers.
Portable Power Banks: A Much-Needed Gift
Portable power banks are essential for keeping devices charged on the go. They are practical for travel, commutes, or emergencies.
Look for high-capacity power banks with multiple charging ports and compact designs. Customizing them with your company’s logo ensures that your brand is associated with convenience and modern technology.
Desk Organizers: Help Employees Stay Organized
Desk organizers help keep workspaces tidy and efficient by providing compartments for pens, paper, and other office supplies. They are practical for maintaining an organized desk and improving productivity. Customizing desk organizers with your company’s logo adds a professional touch and ensures your brand is present in the employee’s workspace.
Thick Throw Blanket: A Cozy Gift for Any Occasion
A thick throw blanket is a luxurious gift that adds warmth and comfort. A high-quality blanket can enhance comfort and is ideal for cold office environments or cozying up at home. Look for blankets made from fleece or knit, which provide warmth and softness.
Customizing the blanket with your company’s logo or colors is a practical gift that reinforces your brand. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation while ensuring employees feel valued and comfortable.
Branded T-Shirts: A Classic Swag Item
Branded T-shirts are a staple in company swag, offering functionality and brand visibility. They can be designed with:
- Creative graphics
- Company slogans
- Logos
A well-designed T-shirt serves as a walking advertisement for your brand and fosters a sense of team unity. Offering various sizes and styles ensures they cater to all employees, promoting inclusivity and engagement.
High-Quality Pens: A Sophisticated Swag Choice
High-quality pens are a practical and sophisticated choice for company swag. They are often used daily for:
- Note-taking
- Signing documents
- Brainstorming ideas
Opt for pens with smooth ink flow, ergonomic grips, and a stylish design. Customizing them with your logo adds a professional touch and ensures that your brand is associated with quality and attention to detail.
Notebooks and Journals: An Office Essential
Custom notebooks and journals are invaluable for jotting down ideas, making plans, or organizing tasks. They are often used in meetings, brainstorming sessions, or personal reflection.
High-quality paper and a durable cover enhance the user experience. Personalizing them with your company’s logo or branding elements provides a professional touch and ensures that your brand remains front and center in employees’ daily routines.
Portable Phone Chargers: A Must-Have For the Tech-Savvy
In today’s fast-paced world, portable phone chargers are a practical necessity. They provide a quick solution for powering devices during:
- Meetings
- Commutes
- Travel
Look for chargers with a high capacity and multiple charging ports to accommodate various devices. Customizing them with your company’s logo ensures that your brand is associated with convenience and modern technology, making them a highly valued gift.
Stainless Steel Tumblers: A Practical Gift for Any Occasion
Stainless steel tumblers are ideal for keeping beverages at the perfect temperature, whether hot or cold. Their durability and insulation make them practical for office use and travel.
Look for tumblers with spill-resistant lids and ergonomic designs. Customizing them with your company’s logo or design enhances their appeal and ensures your brand is prominently displayed.
Stylish Travel Mugs: The Perfect On-the-Go Gift
Travel mugs are perfect for employees who enjoy coffee or tea on the go. They are designed to be portable and feature features like spill-proof lids and thermal insulation to keep drinks at the right temperature.
A stylish design and your company’s branding make them practical and visually appealing. They help promote your brand while providing a daily convenience for employees.
Wireless Earbuds: A Modern and Tech-Savvy Gift
Wireless earbuds are a modern, high-tech swag option that offers convenience and quality. They are perfect for employees who enjoy listening to music, podcasts or taking calls without the hassle of tangled cords.
Look for earbuds with good sound quality, a comfortable fit, and long battery life. Customizing the charging case with your company’s logo adds a personal touch and enhances the perceived value of the gift.
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
Giftpack's driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today
Related Reading
• Vistaprint Alternatives • Corporate Swag Vendors • Swagger Alternatives • Swagup Competitors • Zazzle Alternative • Custom Swag • Best Company Swag • Company Swag Store • Unique Swag Ideas • Best Swag Items • Swag Items for Events
Make your gifting efficient and improve employee attrition rates with Giftpack AI
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