The world of promotional products is constantly changing. What was hot last year might be lukewarm today. To help you stay ahead of the curve, we’ve analyzed our 2024 Partner Series webinar series and identified five key trends that we think will be huge in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this article will give you the insights you need to choose promotional products that make a real impact with your customers and employees.
Trend #1: Personalization is Paramount
People expect brands to connect with them on a personal level, and personalized gifting is becoming increasingly popular. Think beyond just slapping a logo on a pen. Consider unique items, custom packaging, and handwritten notes to add a special touch.
Mark Hanratty, from Swanky Badger, joined the Partner Series in November and shared that the more emotion you can evoke with a gift, the more impact it will have.
It’s not just about the item; it’s about the experience.
Ideas for Personalization
- Branded apparel with the recipient’s name or initials
- Engraved drinkware with a personal message
- Custom-made gifts based on individual interests
Trend #2: Sustainability is Key
Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and they expect the brands they support to be the same. Sustainable promotional products are no longer a niche; they are expected from mainstream brands. Look for items made from recycled materials, ethically sourced, and built to last.
Geoff Vejsicky, from Gemline, shared about their Betterway program in our October Partner Series and how customers are consistently looking for eco-friendly products more than ever.
Popular Sustainable Materials
- Bamboo
- Organic cotton
- Recycled plastic
Trend #3: Products That Add to an Experience
Cheap, freebie items are no longer seen as necessary. Quality promotional items are trending in 2025. Gift your new employee with a custom kit that has a notebook embossed with their name. That will add to their “first day on the job” experience more than a blank spiral notebook.
Products That Add to an Experience
- Branded blanket from Terry Town
- Personalized Leather backpack from Swanky Badger
- Custom Award for a career milestone from Vision Awards
Trend #4: The Power of Premium Retail Brands
Partnering with premium brands elevates your promotional products and creates a sense of exclusivity. These items are often seen as more desirable and generate greater appreciation. A premium retail brand also already has name recognition and passes the quality check. This will help you gain trust with your customers and employees.
Check out our Partner Series with Jeremy from Hirsch where we talked about selecting the right retail brands for your audience, overcoming budget constraints, and building that trust with retail branded products.
Top-Tier Brands for Promotional Partnerships
- Callaway
- YETI
- Solo Stove
Trend #5: Kits are King
Kits are a great way to bundle promotional items and create a cohesive brand experience. They’re perfect for onboarding new employees, welcoming event attendees, or sending gifts to customers.
We have worked with multiple customers to create kits that help foster relationships and celebrate employees.
One of our most recent projects was for IPS. We created a kit for their prospective customers that included a high-quality, well-designed box, a branded T-shirt, hat with a leather patch, a branded YETI, and a nice postcard.
Creative Kit Concepts
- New Employee Onboarding Kit: Branded water bottle, notebook, pen, and a welcome letter
- Event Attendee Kit: T-shirt, tote bag, and a schedule of events
- Client Appreciation Kit: Gourmet coffee, a personalized mug, and a handwritten thank-you note
Technology is a Must-Have
Today, technology is an integral part of our lives. Promotional products that incorporate technology are not only practical but also highly sought after. Tech gadgets are great for tradeshows and new employees setting up their workspaces.
Trending Tech Products
The promotional products industry is dynamic and ever-changing. By staying informed about the latest trends, you can ensure that your marketing efforts are effective and engaging. Remember, it’s not just about giving away free stuff; it’s about creating meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression.
