Trade Show TalesBlog

Tchotchke? Swag? Giveaway?

Cindi Cody, Guest Post
Xzibits, Inc.
www.xzibits.com

Look around your office. How many branded items do you have? I’d bet at least one or two or three . . . and you’re not alone. In 2013, advertisers spent more than $18 billion on promotional products. That’s $18,000,000,000 of swag. Wow!

At nearly half a cent per impression, promotional products are a proven, cost-effective way to market your company and increase your brand awareness. They have a lower cost per impression than nearly every other form of advertising. In addition, they have staying power. Most are kept over seven months. If you’re not using promotional items, here are some reasons you should be.

When Choosing a Promotional Product

Budget – You don’t have to spend a lot. My rule of thumb is to give them something they will be upset about if they lose it.
Imprint Area – Know the imprint area restrictions of the product. If you have a vertical logo more than likely it won’t imprint well on a pen.
Artwork – Always submit Vector art and convert fonts to outlines.
Proofs – Although you may be charged (usually less than $10) always ask for a proof.
Production Time – Build in at least 10 business days. If you have a rush order, there are several manufacturers that offer 24-48 hour production times.
Overages – Ask vendors to share their overage/under provision.

Trending in 2015

Technology

• Power Banks, Stylus Pens, Cord Organizers, Bluetooth Speakers, Phone and Tablet Stands.

Health and Wellness

• Hand Sanitizers, Pedometers, Fitness Watches, and Fingerprint ID Kits

Apparel

• Laser-etched Polos, Packable Garments, Folk Patterns, and a lot of Marsala! (Pantone Color of the Year 2015)

Drinkware

• Infusers, Mason Jars, Geometric Tumblers and Bright Colors

Check out the New Products Introduced at the 2015 ASI Show in Orlando

So… what branded product did you find on your desk? 😉

Have questions about promotional products? Give me a call.

–Cindi Cody