Branded promotional merchandise can be one of THE most powerful marketing tools–but how do you choose the right products for your business? We’re not talking about your run-of-the-mill freebies. Your business is unique, and the merch you choose to represent it should be too. This means products that align with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience. And it needs to be something they’ll actually use. The best part is that–unlike fleeting online ads or TV commercials–tangible products stick around. And ideally, they get used over and over again, serving as a repeat reminder of your brand. Talk about bang for your buck!
So, how do you choose the perfect products to boost your brand and captivate your audience?
Understand Your Business Goals and Brand Identity
- Clarify Your Marketing Objectives: Is your goal to increase brand awareness, drive customer engagement, increase leads or sales? Establishing clear goals up front will help you choose the right merch.
- Identify Your Brand Message: What are your company’s values and messaging? Are sustainability and social responsibility part of your identity? Choosing eco-friendly products will demonstrate your commitment to the environment in a meaningful way. Similarly, ethically sourced items from Certified B Corp companies, or that support charitable causes, are a perfect way to show (not just tell!) customers what you stand for.
- Align Your Merch with Your Brand Identity: Think about your brand personality and voice. (Yes, every brand has them!) If fun and upbeat is your company vibe, consider a fun giveaway that highlights your playful side. How about a branded toy brick kit or a custom surprise cake? A gift that brings a smile to your customer’s face is one they’ll remember. Your merch is a natural extension of your brand identity. If your company is all about innovation and sleek design, your merch should reflect that–think cutting-edge, high quality modern products. Choose items with color, style, and an overall aesthetic that will reinforce your brand and your messaging. Remember, the details matter!
Know Your Target Audience
The right merchandise speaks directly to the people you want to impress, so narrowing down precisely who those people are is essential.
- Zero In on Your Customer: Think about the age group and interests of the customer you want to entice. What are their buying behaviors and what sort of products will appeal to them? If your target is primarily tech-savvy professionals, a Smart Notebook that can scan and digitize notes will wow them, while an eco-conscious audience will appreciate swag from an environmentally-friendly brand like Patagonia, or a gift that gives back, like the Custom Voyager Cooler Chair Combo from PARKIT, who donate a portion of their proceeds to nonprofits focused on protecting the planet.
- Understand Your Customer’s Priorities: Ask yourself what your audience is most likely to value. Is it utility? Novelty? Sustainability? This will help you tailor your selections and choose products that resonate. Going for a fun, retro vibe? How about a Recycled Vinyl Record Rolling Tray or a set of Back to the 90s Tear & Share tattoos? After all, the best merchandise isn’t just about your brand; it’s about engaging your recipients and making an impression.
- Make it Relevant: What type of products will appeal to customers within your specific sector? Every industry has its own flavor, and one size does not fit all. If you’re in the hospitality business, your promo merch should reflect that. Think practical meets luxe–like the Kashwere Travel Blanket/Sock/Eye Mask set that keeps frequent flyers cozy (while your logo travels the world). The trick is matching your merch to the context your customers operate in.
- Staying Power: Multi-function items that stick around provide outstanding ROI. Products with staying power like Marine Layer’s high-quality Weekender Bag are guaranteed to get lots of use and serve as a repeat reminder of your brand.
To see industry-specific product ideas and learn how to maximize impact and drive conversions with your promo merch, check out our PDF, Choose the Right Promo for You.
Working with a Trusted Partner
If you’re thinking that there’s an awful lot that goes into choosing promotional products, you’re right. We hate to disagree with mom, but it’s not just the thought that counts. If you want to make a meaningful, lasting connection with your target audience you need the right product–something they’ll actually use, that aligns with their values, and that makes an impact. That’s where the PromoCentric team can help. We not only have countless products and customization options to choose from; we also have the creative chops, production and delivery capability, and successful track record that leads to long term relationships with our clients.
When it comes to branded merchandise, there is a dizzying array of suppliers to choose from, and choosing well can make or break your campaign. At PromoCentric, we’re not just a vendor—we’re your partners in creating impactful brand experiences. In the end, YOUR success is OUR highest priority.
Benefits of Partnering with PromoCentric:
- Creative collaborators: We make sure we get off on the right foot, beginning with an Alignment Phase to identify your marketing priorities, discuss strategies, and propose creative marketing solutions.
- Customization capabilities: From stickers to skateboards, pens to pickleball, if you can wear it, use it, eat it or drink it, we can brand it. We decorate and fulfill in-house so we can ensure the highest quality screen printing, embroidering, laser engraving, and you-name-it customization.
- Quality & dependability: Premium merch has staying power and reflects positively on your brand. Through our trusted network of worldwide vendors, PromoCentric sources top products from the hottest names to help your brand go above and beyond. Add our on-time and just right pricing guarantee to the mix and you’ve got a promo partner you can depend on for the long haul.
- Socially Responsible Solutions: Our popular selection of sustainable and eco-friendly merch continues to grow, and products sourced from Certified B Corp companies and give-back gifting are a perfect way to model corporate responsibility and show customers you care.
Choosing the best branded merchandise for your business matters. It really does. It’s a strategic decision that needs to align with your marketing goals, resonate with your target audience, and reflect your industry and brand identity. And don’t forget–you want to wow them too!
PromoCentric’s creative brand-building solutions + high quality products + just-right pricing + tried and tested marketing strategies = real-world results. When you’re ready to take your brand to the next level with tailored swag that truly hits the mark, drop us a line!
