- December 23, 2015
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A Sneak Peek at Buzzworthy Promotional Products for 2016
Oprah revealed her annual list of Favorite Things in November, and consumers are swarming to scoop up these hot items just in time for holiday giving.
Here at Marketing Tango, however, we don’t think Oprah should have all the fun.
That’s why we’ve scoured trend reports to give you an insider’s guide. Consider including these buzzworthy items in your 2016 integrated marketing plan to rev up your brand image and create creative ways for customers to remember you.
Support Themed Observances
You’d be hard-pressed to find a day, week or month of the year that isn’t designated as a national observance for some product or cause. You can piggyback on these events to create fun integrated marketing campaigns. Kick start your brainstorming by perusing lists posted at National Calendar Day.
For example, every December is designated as Safe Toys and Gifts Month. You could work with a promotional vendor to develop custom products featuring the Prevent Blindness green emblem and your company’s logo. This is a great idea for any healthcare company or practice.
Bet on the Trendsetters
For the past 12 years, one promotional products company has released its annual “Top 10 Favorite Gift Picks.” You’ll see some perennial favorites, such as travel tech sets or Bluetooth speakers, and productivity tools, including desk-accessory sets. Promo products with a wellness message are also popular with many business-to-business marketers. We like portable stainless steel water bottles with vacuum insulation, as well as stress-relieving essential oils.
Go beyond the Traditional
According to the Advertising Specialty Institute, 56 percent of U.S. consumers own logoed writing instruments, with Midwesterners claiming to be the most avid pen collectors.
ASI’s data proves that logoed writing instruments have staying value, so why not invest in a trendy twist on this classic promo item? Smart pens are higher-end specialty items and make nice gifts for top customers or employee recognition awards. For other recognition ideas, read, “Offer Branded Promotional Products as Employee Perks.”
And don’t forget to check out our other guides to promotional products. We’ve weighed in on the benefits of apparel, USB drives and golf giveaways. But before you place any order, make sure you don’t derail your integrated marketing strategy by selecting clever-yet-inappropriate products. You’ll find our take on the promotional products to avoid here.
