In EnglishGifts That Work: Why Promotional Products Are Still the Best Marketing Tool
2025-02-01
Promotional products have been an integral part of marketing for decades, and for good reason. Practical corporate gifts with a good price-to-quality ratio keep a brand visible for a long time and in a wide range of settings. But in today’s fast-changing world, where digital advertising dominates, a question arises: Are physical promotional products still necessary? The answer is a resounding yes—and the facts support it.
According to a 2023 study conducted by the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), 85% of people remember brands whose promotional products they have received as gifts. Even more impressively, 60% of people keep branded items for over a year, meaning they provide continuous advertising in various environments.
Why are promotional products so effective, and how can businesses use them in the best way? Let’s explore this with practical examples and facts.
1. The Psychology Behind Promotional Products: Why They Influence Customers
People are naturally reciprocal—this means that when they receive something for free, they subconsciously feel inclined to respond positively. When a company gives them a useful promotional item, it creates a subconscious positive association with the brand.
Example: Starbucks’ Reusable Cups
Starbucks leveraged this principle smartly when it introduced its reusable coffee cups, offering customers discounts for using them. This not only promoted sustainability but also increased customer loyalty. Every time a customer used a reusable cup, they were reminded of Starbucks—without the company needing to spend extra on advertising. No wonder the same idea is now widespread in many countries, from gas stations to grocery stores.
2. Long-Lasting Impact: Advertising That Lasts for Months or Even Years
One of the biggest advantages of promotional products is their long-term visibility. While digital ads disappear in an instant, a quality promotional product keeps the brand in the spotlight for months or even years.
Fact: Promotional products have a lower cost per 1,000 impressions than digital ads
A study by ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute) found that branded drinkware gets viewed an average of 1,400 times over its lifetime, making it one of the most cost-effective marketing tools.
Camden 350 ml RCS certified stainless steel tumbler
Premium to-go tumbler with a handy stainless steel push-top opening mechanism that allows for one-hand operation. RCS certified stainless steel body with a durable power coating. The lid is made of RCS certified stainless steel and PP plastic. Copper plating and ceramic lining. Fits most common car cup holders. Keeps drinks 12 hours hot or 24 hours cold. Presented in a recycled cardboard gift box. Volume capacity: 350 ml.
3. Sustainable Marketing: The Rise of Green Trends
Sustainability is no longer just a trend—it has become a crucial strategic tool for businesses. According to a Nielsen study, 57% of consumers prefer brands that promote environmentally friendly solutions and offer eco-certified corporate gifts.
Tin unisex Aware™ recycled quarter zip sweater
This high-quality hoodie is made of 50% recycled polyester and 50% recycled cotton, making it both fashionable and eco-friendly. It also features Aware™ technology, allowing users to track the materials’ origin via a QR code.
Ocean Bottle Lite 620 ml water bottle
Ocean Bottle Lite is made from 65% recycled materials, and for every bottle purchased, 1,000 plastic bottles are removed from the ocean, contributing to environmental cleanup and improving coastal communities’ living conditions.
4. Practicality Matters: Useful Products Get Used
The success of a promotional product depends on whether people actually use it. Functional items, such as bags, notebooks, and charging cables, are far more effective than decorative items.
Fact: 91% of people keep useful promotional products
A study by BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association) found that 91% of people keep promotional products they find useful.
Trend Plus 15” GRS recycled laptop backpack 20L
This roomy and functional backpack is a perfect choice for business clients. With a 15-inch laptop pocket, organizational compartments, and a breathable back panel, it’s ideal for everyday use.
5. How to Choose the Right Promotional Product for Your Business?
Not all promotional products are created equal. To maximize their impact, consider these key factors:
✅ Target Audience – Who will use the product? A tech company may benefit from wireless chargers, while a health-focused brand might prefer branded water bottles.
✅ Quality – High-quality and aesthetically pleasing items get used longer and provide greater visibility.
✅ Customization – Choose products that allow premium logo printing, standout laser engraving, or embroidery for a professional look.
✅ Sustainability – Opt for recycled or reusable materials to show commitment to eco-conscious branding.
Final Thoughts: Make a Lasting Impression with Thoughtful, Practical, and Eco-Friendly Promotional Products
Selecting the right promotional product can leave a strong and lasting impression on clients and partners. A well-chosen, high-quality, and sustainable promotional item will keep your brand top of mind and provide long-term visibility.
Explore more ideas from our wide product selection!
Doyle 5 panel cap
The Doyle 5 panel cap – a timeless design to elevate your headwear collection. With its pre-curved visor, this cap combines classic aesthetics with essential sun protection. The cap’s embroidered eyelets offer optimal ventilation, keeping you cool and composed during outdoor pursuits. Designed for a comfortable fit with a head circumference of 58 cm, the metal buckle closure allows for easy, secure adjustments. Made from 260 g/m² heavy brushed cotton twill.
Libra 2-in-1 GRS recycled laptop case 3L
The Libra 2-in-1 laptop case is perfect for daily commuting or travel because of its well thought out functionalities and design. It is made from GRS certified recycled polyester and RPET lining, and it has a zipped main compartment which can be opened 180 degrees to facilitate security checks. The case also features a quality neoprene protected laptop sleeve on one side, 2 mesh pockets on the other side, a zipped front pocket, a trolley strap on the back, and two open pockets for extra storage where you can also tuck in the webbing handles easily, turning it into a laptop sleeve.
Felta GRS recycled felt gusset tote bag 20L
Large gusset tote bag made of soft and durable high-quality GRS certified recycled felt. The bag features a large main compartment with abundant space (up to 20 litres), reinforced woven cotton handles (30 x 2.5 cm) for optimal carrying comfort, and a closure button at the top.
Florida 270 g/m² GRS recycled beach tote bag 18L
The Florida tote bag made from 100% GRS certified recycled cotton is the perfect bag for carrying all the essentials for a day at the beach or a casual outing. The cotton density of 270 g/m² cotton makes the bag sturdy, long-lasting and the rope handles make it suitable to carry heavy items in the main compartment. The print methods available for this tote bag are also GRS certified, ensuring that the entire supply chain is transparent and certified. Handle dropdown length: 45 cm. Resistance up to 10 kg weight. Volume capacity: 18 litres. Made in India.
Bergen 800 ml recycled plastic water bottle
Water bottle made from RCS certified RPET, featuring a convenient carrying handle that is integrated with the cap. EFSA certified (European Food Safe Authority). Volume capacity: 800 ml. BPA free.
Dolce 300 ml ceramic mug with matt finish
Stylish ceramic mug with unglazed bottom. Dishwasher safe. Presented in a recycled cardboard gift box. Volume capacity: 300 ml.
Americano® Eco 350 ml recycled tumbler with spill-proof lid
Double-walled tumbler made from recycled plastic, with a twist-on spill-proof lid and black inner layer. The tumbler is 75% recycled in total, with a recycled mug and standard lid. The lid clips closed to better prevent spillages, and is manufactured without silicone for a fully recyclable mug. Due to the nature of recycled plastic, there may be small marks or some colour variation. EN12875-1 compliant, dishwasher safe, and microwave safe. The tumbler has a volume capacity of 350 ml and is fully recyclable. Made in the UK. Packed in a recycled PE plastic bag. BPA-free.
Nanna ballpoint pen with rose gold finish (blue ink)
The Nanna ballpoint pen with rose gold finish has a barrel made of recycled aluminium with a touch stylus made of silicone. Recycled aluminium reduces the amount of waste in landfills and helps to conserve natural resources aiming to reduce greenhouse emissions. Ink colour: Blue. Writing length: 800 metres. Nib size: 1.0 mm.
Spectrum A5 hard cover notebook
The Spectrum notebook is not only an office essential but also a great opportunity to promote your brand. The cardboard notebook has a soft-feel cover and 96 lined sheets of 60 g/m², ideal for writing down quick ideas or long notes. The A5 size is practical as it fits easily into the average bag.,
Diya 3W wireless recycled plastic speaker
The Diya wireless speaker is made from recycled plastic and has a PU leather strap for easy portability. It delivers 3 watts of powerful sound and supports MP3 playback via Micro SD. Enjoy seamless connectivity with a line-in option and recharge effortlessly through the Type-C charging port. Playback time at max volume is approximately 3 hours and the speaker can be fully charged 0-100% in approximately 2 hours.
Alasia 5-in-1 recycled aluminium and plastic 150 cm data sync and 27W fast charge cable
The Alasia 5-in-1 data sync and 27W fast charge cable is made from sleek and durable recycled aluminium and recycled plastic. The cable features USB-A and a Type-C input connectors combined with a Type-C and a Lightning/Micro USB combi output connector. USB-A to USB-C provides a power output of max 27W, and all other connection options max 15W. Compatible with both CarPlay and Android Auto. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the move, the Alasia cable delivers performance and style in one compact package. Cable length: 150 cm.