Bankers Advertising

By: Molly Beavers

The Super Bowl is, well, the Super Bowl of advertising. The Super Bowl is a rare occasion on television when people want to see advertising. Instead of setting the DVR to ignore commercials, people are using it to record them. The captive audience and high price tag forces advertisers to push the envelope of creativity and campaign development. Last year a 30 second ad sold for as much as $5.6 million dollars. Some 96.4 million people on average tuned into the 2021 Super Bowl to watch the Chiefs and Buccaneers. That estimate doesn’t even account for larger viewing groups at private parties, or bars.

Most companies don’t have a massive budget to spend on a Super Bowl ad. That’s where we come in! Promotional products offer the same effect. They are a rare advertising medium the people actually want to see and receive. It’s not just one Sunday night each year, it’s all of the time.

While the ads are fun to watch they are also great for gleaning valuable insight into advertising today. It’s about more than what is on the screen. Valuable marketing lessons are found in the buzz generated by the ads and their integration of other channels. Here are a few observations that can be applied when using promotional products.

Ads Are No Longer Linear  

Commercials are evolving to be more than just interruptions of our regularly scheduled programs.  Advertisers are no longer in control of how, when or where their advertising is viewed. Sure, they can still buy specific time slots, but with social media sharing turning them into entertainment on demand, it’s not always a straight shot from advertiser to the viewer.

To take advantage, Super Bowl advertisers are creating added entertainment value. For several years, in the buildup for the Super Bowl, commercials have been teased, released, or even “leaked” prior the Super Bowl to start the conversations early.  Just google – Super Bowl Ads for 2022 if you want a peak.

This year surrounding the big game, the commercials now have their own commercials for their commercials. No joke—the Super Bowl ad process has gone from dropping teaser trailers for commercials to straight up filming a commercial to promote an upcoming commercial. There are a lot that have sequel commercials – before, during and after the game. Others have “cliff hanger” commercials asking you to go online to see the rest. Some are integrating social media or mobile content to further engage. The goal is to give the audience additional engagement options once they have their attention.

Takeaway – Ensure a good marketing mix that gives you audience multiple options to engage your brand. Promotional products should be a part of that mix, because a relevant and useful item tends to integrate itself into the life of the recipient. The additional engagement is appreciated by the recipient and brings value to the advertiser. Few advertising methods are as welcomed into personal spaces like promotional products.

In It For The Long Haul

Super Bowl ads now have the ability to last longer than their time slot. People talk about the ads for days and watch them over and over again. In the days after the big game, websites and blogs are posting articles reviewing the ads thus adding extra life. Since $5.6 million is a lot to spend for 30 seconds, Super Bowl advertisers are finding value in the conversations that take place on social media and in the blogosphere after the ads have aired.

Take away -look for long term marketing value beyond the initial touch. Promotional products have that long term value built-in as the typical item is kept for 6 months. They have the ability to start conversations about a brand and encourage people to share their experiences long after they have received the promotional item.

Promotional Products Savor the Moment

Every year you will see the t-shirts and caps celebrating their championship. Usually there is a commercial selling the winning team official merchandise to commemorate the occasion. Talk about striking while the iron is hot. The inclusivity adds value by creating a stronger connection between the fans and their team.

Take away – People want to remember good times and significant milestones. Promotional products are tangible reminders of those occasions and can connect on an emotional level with the recipient. The effect is not limited to the big events. Leaving an item behind after a sales call or handing one out after a conversation at a trade show booth serves as a reminder of what was discussed.

People are always open to receiving promotional products. You don’t have to wait until Super Sunday for consumers to welcome our advertising…83% of consumers like receiving promotional products.  Promotional products create the same opportunity and excitement.

Who will you be rooting for the Bengals, the Rams or the Commercials? I admit…I am not much of a football fan and only watch for the commercials. My family and I always pick our favorites. After the big game, we would love to hear from you regarding your favorite commercial.

Want to get in on the action? Contact your sales representative for more information about adding promotional products to your next campaign.

We asked our sales managers to share their favorite promos from Bankers’ new Spring Guide! In this installment, Brenda Thurness and Mel Lamb tell us about their top three picks.

Sales Manager Brenda Thurness

Brenda:

#R100/R200 Granny Paring Knife (pg. 6)

The Granny Paring knife is a little knife with a specially designed reverse curved shape that cuts and slices in any direction.  The website states its compact, precise and Oh-So Sharp! I’m very anxious to try this knife because it says its terrific when used on small foods that are held in the hand while peeling or cutting, like strawberries for fruit pizza or apples for pies.  It works equally well whether cutting toward or away from the body.  Its available with a silver satin aluminum handle or black resin handle and has a lifetime guarantee!

#CGB5 5 oz. Candles with Giftbox (pg. 10)

I love candles so I’m very anxious to try new #CGB5. The website says it offers an 18 hour slow burn that emits fragrance at a higher level for a lasting impression. The packaging for these candles is very cute.  They come in a glass container in some interesting scents as berry bliss and citrus infusion (would be nice for the kitchen), lavender breeze, along with sunshine and sandalwood.

#EAC-SU21 Sunrise Alarm Clock (pg. 12)

The third item that caught my attention is the Bamboo Sunrise Alarm Clock from Ariel.  This is a multi-function item.  It has a wireless charging pad on the top and a clock that shuffles through the date, time and temperature on the side of the box.  It has an alarm set up on the back, with a snooze button option on the top.  It also has a 6 color changing light mode so you can light up the Himalayan salt in the bottom of the box to the color of your choice for a night light.  You can do a one color imprint on the top or you have the option to do their Vivid (full color) option.  Comes nicely packaged making a great gift!

Sales Manager Mel Lamb

Mel:

#Quatro Fashion – Papermate InkJoy (pg. 14)

I LOVE colored pens. They are a great way to keep myself organized while working on several different projects. This InkJoy pen is one of the smoothest pens to write with.

#BEN-FN21 BeWell Flaxseed Heat Therapy Neck/Shoulder Pad (pg. 10)

I think this would be a fantastic item for employers to give to their employees that work on a computer all day. Either at home or in an office. I don’t know about you, but my shoulder starts to hurt if I have a busy day in front of the computer. At my previous job we had something very similar, and they were a big hit around the office.

101060 Aviana Dallas To Go Cup (pg. 16)

I am a sucker for new drinkware pieces, especially when they come in such a pretty color. I think this stainless steel double walled tumbler would be a big hit when the warm weather arrives. Bonus with this piece – you can put it in the dishwasher!

We’re excited to share our Spring Guide with you! We have carefully curated 23 pages full of promotional products we think you’ll love. Need more inspiration? Contact your Bankers sales representative. Our team loves recommending products for your company and is always happy to help! Click here to find the perfect products for your campaign!

Check back soon to see more Spring Guide Favorites!

By: PPAI Media

Consumers have an unquenchable thirst for drinkware. Between mugs, bottles and tumblers, they can’t get enough. And with ever-growing environmental and health concerns, reusable drinkware is a solution that makes a statement.

From marathon runners to corporate suits, consumers are constantly looking for the perfect cup. According to industry research, as many as 78 percent of U.S. consumers own branded drinkware, and half of those people use their logoed mugs and cups between two and three times per week. When people find a favorite bottle or mug, they use it faithfully, which is why branded drinkware leads in impressions—more than 1,400 for the average item in its lifecycle. Along with this heavy usage, people tend to keep branded drinkware longer than other categories of promo items. PPAI research shows that recipients keep their promotional kitchenware, including mugs and other drinkware, for roughly four years on average. So, it’s not a question of whether end users are using branded drinkware, but if they’re using drinkware that’s customized with your branding.

Drinkware is more than an everyday essential; it’s a testament to one’s lifestyle. Consumers have found an identity in the types of beverages they drink and drinkware they use. The Atlantic says coffee lovers have created a prospering coffee-connoisseur culture.

Today, drinkware is a part of self-expression. The Atlantic says that fancy water bottles have become a status symbol. Carrying a water bottle not only implies that you make hydration a priority, but also that you care about the environment. Essential to a well-functioning body, drinking water is obviously not new, but the trend of constant consumption has continued to rise in popularity over the past decade.

Hydration is a top wellness priority for many consumers. Now marketed as a cure for many of life’s woes, water on-the-go is a must. Since 2017, bottled water has been the most popular beverage in the United States by volume, surpassing soft drinks with sales up seven percent over the previous year, according to the Beverage Marketing Corporation, a beverage consulting firm. So, people are drinking water all day and even carrying it around with them, bringing water on the go. Giant, even cumbersome water jugs are a new fashion accessory, according to MEL magazine.

The New York Times says that everyone’s 2020 resolution was to drink more water. As a result, this need for easy-to-use and convenient drinkware for everyday hydration and a growing focus on fitness is driving market growth. The drinkware market is following suite with sales expected to exceed $35 billion by 2025, according to MarketWatch. Global shifts toward the use of more sustainable materials are also leading to market gains. When it comes to mugs and cups, metal and silicon are leading the industry. Metal drinkware, in particular, is more durable than other materials, making it much more economically and environmentally viable, according to MarketWatch. Consumers also gravitate to design-forward drinkware that represents their lifestyles.

Drinkware gifts say, “I care about you. Please stay hydrated.” Whether it’s a water, tea or tequila, everyone could use a drink.

Make sure to add drinkware to your next marketing plan. Contact your Bankers Representative to decide which best selling product is the perfect match for your company.

Check out more drinkware options here.

By: PPB Newslink

Citing the transformative nature of modern times and more anticipated transition ahead, color matching and design authority Pantone has named its Color of the Year for 2022: PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri, an “inquisitive and intriguing” mix of blue and red hues.

The particular shade of purple is a new creation by Pantone, marking the first time a new color has been named Color of the Year.

The New Jersey-based company, whose proprietary color palette is widely viewed as the standard in design across a vast array of industries—including the printing and manufacturing germane to the promotional products marketplace—has named colors informed by the times each year since 2000. The decision comes through trend analysis of multiple genres, including entertainment, fashion, art, lifestyle, technology and more.

“As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue color family,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone Color Institute. “Encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possessing a violet-red undertone, PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”

Pantone Color Institute is the business unit within Pantone that highlights the top seasonal runway colors, selects the Pantone Color of the Year, forecasts global color trends and advises companies on color for product and brand visual identity. Through seasonal trend forecasts, color psychology, and color consulting, Pantone Color Institute partners with global brands to effectively leverage the power, psychology, and emotion of color in their design strategy.

“The Pantone Color of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that color can hope to answer,” says Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute. “Creating a new color for the first time in the history of our Pantone Color of the Year educational color program reflects the global innovation and transformation taking place. As society continues to recognize color as a critical form of communication, and a way to express and affect ideas and emotions and engage and connect, the complexity of this new red violet infused blue hue highlights the expansive possibilities that lay before us.”

Make sure to include Very Peri in your next sales promotion. It is a simple and easy way to keep your company moving with current trends.

As the new year nears, now is a great time for you show your employees some appreciation. Anything that shows they are recognized as valuable can make the difference for an employee who’s been giving it all they’ve got.

Recent PPAI studies have shown that recognition programs work:

• Recognition programs boost sales an average of 26%
• Promotional products as incentives can boost employee performance by 22%
• Team recognition boosts performance up to 44%
• Incentive programs that run for more than a year increase performance by 44%
• According to a recent survey, workers reported going 50 days since they last felt recognized.

Boosting morale is as easy as making use of in-house capabilities! Certificates and awards really give employers the opportunity to make recognition personal; we can print them, and a classy, branded holder to give with them, to boot! Nothing speaks as clearly as their own words: Custom thank-you cards are the perfect place to jot down thoughts on what an employee means to the company.

On the other hand, receiving jewelry (watch, ring, etc.), a high-quality plaque or a glass award is something the employee will cherish, and which serves as a constant reminder of their hard-earned achievement! These tangible awards, plaques and other recognition pieces are also critical. They greatly increase self-esteem and improve morale, they provide a visible reminder of achievement and appreciation, they are critical in our world’s changing business climate and economic times.

Do you have an awards and recognition program? Bankers can help you create a successful awards and recognition program from start to finish!

Here are the key attributes to an Awards and Recognition program:

• Reinforce company goals
• Helps strengthen the company’s brand
• Helps improve employee loyalty
• Encourages personal achievement
• Rewards performance
• Increases productivity
• Builds self-esteem and motivation
• Builds a sense of accomplishment
• Most importantly…it says, “thank-you!” For a job well done!

More facts about awards and recognition:

• Companies that incentivize employees are 44% more likely to have above average profits
• 47% of employee recognition gifts are company logo merchandise
• Companies spend $46 billion dollars on recognition programs each year

If employees have held steadfast through the ravages of the pandemic and helped you rise above, they deserve recognition.

Contact your Bankers consultant today to help you recognize and reward your best asset – your team!

A recent World at Work-study discovered that 85% to 95% of all company incentive programs reach or exceed their goals! A key asset for any company is their employees. Competition is keen today for this very important asset. As a result, an organization, in order to stay competitive, absolutely needs to make employees feel valued.

Studies have shown that companies that offer recognition programs outperform their competition, increase employee loyalty and are more highly thought of in the community. Awards & Recognition are increasingly important in today’s business environment and competition for the best workers is intense. At the same time, the importance of human resources is paramount – a company needs to obtain extraordinary results from ordinary people. Yet another factor is the attitude among today’s employees, who value job satisfaction over most other criteria.

No matter your holiday plans, most people do some traveling to get to their special place. I have compiled a list of traveling must haves from our Bankers 2021 Fall Gift Guide. Use this list to help you find the perfect gift for any group of people.

UQ20755 Illuminating TWS Earbuds (pg. 13) – Earbuds are a traveling necessity. Travelers are bound to need earbuds when in the airport or on long car rides, and especially when traveling alone. The illuminating case charges your earbuds when they aren’t in use. When charging, the case lights up your brand’s logo. With three hours of playback time on full volume, these earbuds are a great accessory for any amount of traveling being done this year. Your brand name won’t be missed when it’s up in lights like this.

8832XX h2go Cerro Bottles (pg. 22) – If you’re a water bottle connoisseur like me, you always have one with you and have certain ones for each occasion: the gym, work, home,

etc. When traveling there are a few things I look for in a water bottle. It must be well sealed, keep my drink cold or hot for an extended amount of time and fit in most cup holders. Nothing is more annoying than when your bottle doesn’t fit and then you get stuck holding it the whole trip. This water bottle is all of that in one. The sleek design makes it practical for the gym, but attractive and professional for professional situations. It is vacuum sealed, double wall stainless steel, slim, has a carry handle and is available in six colors. It is also said to be tough-as-nails, which is important when hurrying through busy areas.

AG-250 Rolling Carry-on Duffle (pg. 20) – Duffels are my go-to bag when traveling, but I always end up packing too much and making it heavy. This bag is the solution to that.

It’s telescope extending handle allows ease when walking long distances or while carrying other luggage. I like how duffels hold my clothing and personal items I don’t want to check, so it’s amazing that is it is already a TSA approved carry-on. The hard bottom ensures that your items are protected, and your silk screen logo will stand out amongst the crowd. Putting your imprint in a high traffic area is expensive. Instead of putting up a sign in one airport, provide the travelers in your life with this carry-on duffle and your impressions double as they depart one airport and arrive in another.

88166/78166 North End Two Layer Fleece Soft Shell Hooded Jacket and CE702/CE702W Core365 Prevail Packable Puffer Vest (pg.14) – Weather while traveling can be unpredictable. It’s always good to have multiple layers available. This jacket is light weight, but also has a fleece chin guard and attached hood for colder temperatures. As fall turns into winter, rainstorms happen more frequently. These jackets and vests are water repellent. The vest’s lining is made of 100% thermal poly fill. What’s even better is the separate storage pouch that allows it to be packable and take up less space in your luggage. People are drawn to attractive clothing, but when it is visually pleasing and versatile your brand will gain more exposure.

100938-231 Auden Bamboo Lap Desk (pg. 10) – Some employees have been working from home for a while now, but it’s not the same when you don’t have your personal desk and supplies. This lap desk has an awesome design that allows the user to work anywhere they need to. It is my favorite gift idea for employees this year. If your employees work from home at all, this is a great gift that will show them how much they are appreciated. There is so much about this product that I love. Your laptop won’t overheat because there is a vented tray so your laptop won’t overheat, and it can’t slip off the lap desk because the ledge secures it safely in place. The mouse pad and phone dock are already built in. You might even want to order an extra for yourself. I would!

Contact your Bankers Sales Consultant for information on these products and other gift ideas or check out our Holiday Gift Guide here. 

Today is America Recycles Day, and we want to share this article with you. It does a great job of explaining what PET products are, why brands need to incorporate them and how important it is to buy from these companies that are producing the products. People are becoming more environmentally conscious every day, and the promotional products industry needs to continue adapting to this change.

Embrace Your Inner Green – Recycled PET Products

The concept of recycling has been around for thousands of years, but our modern-day understanding of the term emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, spurred on by the environmental movement. The pandemic has heightened awareness of sustainability issues. In a recent survey, 87% of people said that companies should integrate environmental concerns into their products, services, and operations. One step we can all take to embrace our inner green is to buy products made of recycled materials. That’s where recycled PET (RPET) comes in.

PET – or polyethylene terephthalate – is the most common type of resin. It is used to make plastic containers that hold anything from water to shampoo to peanut butter to cleaning solution. Because very  few PET containers can re-enter the production cycle as food-grade containers, manufacturers have developed a process for recycling PET into a polyester fabric – or RPET.

Why Choose RPET Products?

• Recycled PET polyester is equivalent in quality to newly produced polyester.
• Recycling PET helps decrease the amount of plastic waste entering landfills.
• Using RPET polyester reduces the need for new material and saves natural resources such as oil and natural gas. 
• Creating RPET uses 59% less energy than creating virgin PET products.

As you can see, there are many reasons to use recycled PET products and little to no drawbacks. The quality is the same and it serves a greater purpose to help the planet and future generations. This is a small change that can make a huge difference for many years to come. We challenge you to purchase ecofriendly products. Keep your audience in mind: Millennials and Gen Z are very eco conscious groups of people and are more likely to want these products. We currently offer many RPET products. A few are shown below. And you can find even more on our website here.

• Koozie – #AP6810ECO Recycled PET Center Court Duffel
  • Recycled equivalent content: 19 (16 oz) water bottles
• Hit – #11166 RPET Oasis Pen
  • Made from post-consumer plastic bottles
• Gemline – #100986-117 Slowtide Fleece Blanket
  • Made from 100% recycled post-consumer waste
• PCNA/Leads – #1631-66 Recycled PET Eco Cooling Fitness Towel
  • 100% recycled PET
• Garyline – #FLY9R 9” Flyer Frisbee
  • Molded with 40% post-industrial recycled polypropylene
• SanMar – #NF0A5IRN The North Face Ladies’ ThermoBall Eco Long Jacket
  • Made from 100% post-consumer recycled content

Be sure to contact your sales representative for other resources or if you have questions about how to find more RPET and recycled products.

Associating your brand with retail name items creates a powerful combination and gifts that make a big impression. We’ve noticed many new brands being introduced in our industry lately and want to share them with you.

Retail companies already have established reputations for quality standards. A study found that 60 percent of end users prefer a recognized brand.

It’s no secret that retail brands come at a higher price point than other options. But through minimizing risk, creating recognition, and standing out from the competition, you are bound to make back your investment. After all, sometimes choices made to save money can end up costing money in the long run. Your brand will easily be differentiated as a knowledgeable seeker of value.

When you work with retail brands, you can be confident that certain things are taken care of. If the products are for sale on shelves across the country, you know they’ve been thoroughly vetted and meet all relevant safety standards.

Decision-making is easier when you are dealing with a known quantity rather than taking a risk on something sight-unseen. Know what to expect and trust that it will be the same each time you get it. There are no surprises here; the quality is consistent.

Retail brands also offer more than just recognition. They often have the latest and greatest in their own industry.

The industry has recently added several new brands. Some include: Morphie, Skullcandy, Bose, Popl, Stojo, Hidrate Spark, Bottle Keeper, Sprigbox and Ekobo and Cuisinart. Check out a couple our new favorites below. You can see all the exciting new brands on our website.

Check out Hidrate Spark. This water bottle line links via Bluetooth to an app on your phone. You put in personal information including age, height, weight, sex, altitude and more. This all helps the app calculate the amount of water intake you need each day. The LED Smart Sensor glows a color of your choice when you need to hydrate. What better way to let the recipient know that you care about their health?

Bottle Keepers continue to trend. You’ve seen similar products that keep for cans and bottles cold, well here is an adjustable version that can fit more sizes. The Can Keeper 3-IN-1 holds three different sizes. (12oz, 16 oz and slim cans) Internal spring-loaded base allows for easy removal and secure for almost all can types. The lid is designed to keep the cold inside the can and the bugs and dirt out.

Cuisinart makes a portable gas grill that looks like and is the size of a picnic basket! The perfect outdoor companion for any excursion. Never go hungry on long boat rides again when you can make anything you want on this portable grill while staying on the water. The wooden lid doubles as a cutting board to prepare your food or use it as a crackers and cheese board to enjoy with some wine. Putting an imprint on this grill is sure to bring your brand name up in conversation over the heat of this smoking product!

Popl’s Popl Flat is one of the industry’s latest tech gadgets. It is a portable “business card” that attaches to the back of your phone like a pop socket. Tap your Popl to the top of a phone and it instantly shares your contact information. The receiving phone does not need to have a Popl or the app downloaded. This item is the perfect contactless business card! We are excited to welcome these new brands to the promotional products industry alongside our tried-and-true brands like Igloo, Coleman, Pelican, Nike, Adidas, Origio and many more. Contact your Bankers Promotional Consultant for more details and brands available.

We are excited to share our Fall Gift Guide favorites. We encourage everyone to place orders soon. Use our team’s top picks to suggest ideas for the special groups of people you want to celebrate this year!

Director, Sales Development Kevin Peska

Kevin:

#T309TS Portable 24-Piece Tool Set (pg.8) – How many times have you found yourself needing to make a small repair, but you don’t have any tools handy? If you’re like me, it happens more than you’d like. This kit is perfect because you can store it in a vehicle, your kitchen catch-all drawer, basement or garage. You won’t build a house with it, but it will fit the bill when it comes to minor repairs!

#HW96UK Chun Utensil Gift Set (pg. 12) – My wife is a realtor, so I always keep an eye out for items I think would make great gifts for her clients. In my mind there is nothing better than a kitchen item that will be kept and used for years to come (think of the advertising exposure). More and more people are gravitating to sustainable products, so you might want this bamboo set. Heck, you might want two, to use in your own kitchen!

#COA-Slate-XX 4-Pack Slate Coasters (pg. 12) – This is another item I’m recommending to my wife as a gift to present to new home buyers. Whether you’re entertaining, sitting around the table for dinner or working in your home office, most people have a drink. If they’re like me, they grab a napkin or paper towel to set it on. Step it up notch and protect your furniture with these awesome slate coasters.

Business Development Coordinator  Kristin Nalan

Kristin:

#JK-3830SL Silver Glitter Desktop Photo Frame (pg. 7) – This frame caught my eye because it has fun silver glitter. This desktop frame is acrylic plastic, so I would be comfortable having it on my desk at work or sitting on a shelf at home. My cat can bat at the glitter, my son can shake it – and my photo is safe. Giving the photo a shake at work could also be a nice stress reliever. You can also add a custom insert image. Great keepsake for their work desks or shelves at home. What a great way to make your clients feel special!

#8999 – Adult Coloring Book with Colored Pencils (pg. 7) – As we move from summer into fall, I think of rainy days sitting under a blanket, quietly coloring as I watch my favorite show on Netflix. This is a nice size book to carry with me or leave on an end table by the television. There is also something fun about opening a fresh coloring book. Both the pencils and the book come imprinted. It includes a sharpener and an eraser. Coloring is a great stress reducer. This would be a great gift to give your employees and show them that you care about them. One color imprint is available on the coloring book, and one color or full color is available on the pencil box.

#JK-9055 Swed-ish Dishcloth (pg. 12) – This new product intrigues me. Reusable, biodegradable and sustainable are all words I like to incorporate into my lifestyle without breaking the bank. This product is reputed to replace up to 15 rolls of paper towels. The price includes full color imprint. Just add your brand to a stock design. You can utilize the entire space with a custom full color imprint. Household and kitchen items offer daily brand exposure and repeated use.

#JK-1505 Air Plant (pg. 12) – Low-maintenance plant? Do I need to say any more than that? I love my garden, but my plants go into open revolt if I bring them inside. Melanie, Brenda and Joyce can grow a jungle on their side of the office, but not me. These words speak to my green thumb: “They require very little up-keep and are a nice green addition to brighten any setting regardless of the season.” This plant has my name written all over it and I would suspect there are others out there too that need a low-maintenance plant too. Perfect for any home office, school or desk with your brand on it.

Erica:

VP Sales Erica Gogel

#100714-XX Modern Sprout Tree Kit (pg.4) – This is my top pick from the Fall Gift Guide. I got one of my own and planted it. I have great news! I have two sprouts. Your brand on the bag for these Modern Sprout kits will signify you care about the earth. Modern Sprout is on a mission to help reforest the future—for every kit purchased, a donation is made to plant a tree. Tree Kits feature carefully selected seed types that will thrive in most parts of the country. The whole kit is environmentally friendly. Planting a tree, especially here in Iowa, is top priority after the Derecho from last August.

#OR2C Custom Pewter Ornaments (pg. 4) – I’ve always really liked the ornaments because of the continuity possibility. With all the manufacturing and printing capabilities available, the possibilities are limitless. You could do your building, logo, a new product or a holiday themed ornament. There is space on the back of most of the ornaments for a personal message. When you need to impress your clients with something substantial this ornament is the way to go. Create your own collector or annual series.

#HCB1 Hot Chocolate Bomb (pg. 5),  #17300E Duo-Tone Bistro Mug (pg. 22) – These two items from the Guide pair so nicely! Who doesn’t like hot chocolate? Especially as the weather turns cold for the coming winter. This Hot Chocolate bomb is not only delicious but an amazing food experience. Filled with delicious marshmallows, simply place the chocolate bomb in a mug, pour 10 oz. of hot milk over it and watch the bomb unravel before your clients’ eyes. Fast and easy, this hot cocoa recipe is sure to make you customer’s cold winter’s day much better. The Duo-Tone Bistro Mug’s copy is deep etched, giving it a more upscale look. This handy piece of drinkware is a perfect addition to any coffeehouse, restaurant, or home kitchen. It has a vibrant exterior with white interior with easy grip handle. Excellent for the holidays!

Our team loves recommending products for your company and is always happy to help! Click here to find the perfect holiday gift from our Fall Gift Guide!

Utilizing the Power of Promo

People around the world love promotional products and have been connecting with them for a very long time. In fact, the first known promo products were commemorative buttons from 1789 when George Washington was president. In 1886, Jasper Meek, deemed “The Father of Promotional Products,” started using burlap bags to promote small businesses.

With such widespread and enduring appeal, it’s no wonder that promotional products are so effective when it comes to creating exposure, engagement, and a lasting impact. No matter the size of your business, there’s nothing more powerful and effective than putting your brand in the hands of consumers or employees. Promotional campaigns are a personal, cost-effective way to help you not only reach your target audience but do so in a meaningful way that keeps consumers coming back for more.

October 20th is Promotional Products Work! Day, and we can’t think of a better time to celebrate the many ways promo products can help you to connect with your audience.

Let Us Count the Ways

So, how exactly do promotional products help brands get noticed and connect with customers?

You’re invited: Promotional products are the only advertising welcome in spaces and places that no other advertising medium can touch.

• Fun Fact: Promotional products are ranked the most effective form of advertising across all generations.

Surprise & delight: Customized, personalized, tech-savvy, and highly targeted promotional products are the No. 1 most effective form of advertising to inspire action.

• Fun Fact: Promotional products draw up to 500% more referrals than just a review.

Staying power: With more recall than all other advertising media, 90% of promo product recipients recall the brand and 80% keep items for over a year.

• Fun Fact: Consumers are 2.5 times more likely to have a positive opinion of promotional products over internet advertising.

Inspire purpose: Impact a highly targeted audience through a social, intellectual, educational, and entertaining form of experience and engagement.

• Fun Fact: Nearly 100% of consumers say they are willing to go out of their way to get a promotional product.

Get in touch: Promotional products are the only advertising medium that touches all five senses, and the only medium people can touch!

• Fun Fact: A single promotional item averages 344 impressions per month.

Let us help you make promotional products an integral part of your marketing today!