Hot Promotional Products for 2021 provide a way to strengthen customer connections.
You’ve likely heard these words from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
That famous quote is relevant not only in a personal sense; it’s a mandate for the way you should operate your business: Today’s consumers want to feel a connection to the brands they support. A recent Forbes article notes that, according to one study, 83% of consumers admit paying as much attention to how brands treat them as on the product they sell; and that 73% say they’re willing to pay more for a product if they love the brand—statistics that underscore that the customer experience is critical.
Promotional products offer a tangible, cost-effective way to create a positive brand experience for your customers, employees, prospects, and members. Well-directed promotional products and apparel solutions can help you make authentic connections with your audience: Think personalized gifts that help remote workers feel valued and part of your team, or comfort-centered apparel like cozy hoodies and fleece that create a feel-good vibe, or sustainable items like reusable straws that reinforce your commitment to protecting the environment—the right promotional products can help you reinforce your brand values and make lasting impressions.
So, how do you choose the right promotional products? Here are the promotional products for 2021 along with apparel items that are resonating with consumers right now:
Hybrids + Crossovers
Multi-tasking products are in demand: The Yoga pen is packed with a stylus and rubberized barrel and can also be used as phone stand.
Work From Home Items
With today’s mobile workplace, work-from-home essentials are still in high demand for both existing employees and onboarding new team members: Wireless charging pads for digital devices, pens, notepads, coffee cups, and more.
Self-care Items
Employee engagement solutions and recognition gifts continue to remain popular: Leather journals (customized), spa kits and specialty/gourmet food items top the list.
Sustainable Items
It’s one thing to claim that you care about the environment; but it’s another thing to show it: Green gifts like reusable straws, insulated tumblers, and reusable tote bags are a great way to demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility.
Safety + Cleanliness
PPE continues to be a priority for many companies, as well as phone/digital device sanitizers, cleaning kits for eyeglasses and no-touch tools. Also pens and mouse pads with an antimicrobial additive that suppresses the growth of bacteria, algae, fungus, and mildew.
Among the many benefits of promotional products is that they create lasting impressions and experiences with your brand. So, choose wisely: As you consider promotional products and apparel items to rep your brand, be thoughtful about the end user and the brand message and experience you want them to take away. If you’d like help with your promotional product marketing, connect with me at Tberry@shamrockcompanies.net.
