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It might surprise you to know that one of the most effective marketing strategies in the 21st Century is also one of the oldest. Promotional products have been around since 1789, when the campaign to elect George Washington for President gave away commemorative buttons to voters. Here we are more than 200 years later and businesses, organisations and community groups are still using promotional products to influence human behaviour.
While the internet and social media has changed the way businesses engage with their customers, one thing that will never change is the consumer’s love of freebies. Whether it’s the traditional branded pen, or a flash drive emblazoned with your logo, promotional products are just as popular with consumers today as they were in the 20th Century.
In fact, unlike other traditional forms of marketing such as flyers and printed catalogues, the promotional products industry has continued to thrive in the digital age, with companies like Fresh Promotions in Australia offering hundreds of different promotional products for businesses big and small.
From stationary items to wristbands, you can emblazon your logo and contact details on just about anything these days. Promotional products are also a popular option for corporate gifts.
Why Should I Use Promotional Products?
Despite an impressive track record, many business owners are still not convinced that promotional products will work for them. Small businesses in particular worry about the costs involved but as research conducted by the Australasian Promotional Products Association (APPA) shows, promotional products can more than pay for themselves in increased sales.
More than 75% of people who receive a promotional product are able to recall the brand or business name on the free product and more than half will purchase a product or service from that business.
Which Promotional Products Work Best?
There are hundreds of different promotional products available but which one will work best for your business will depend on the type of business you are operating. For example, a fashion retailer might give away a free tote bag or scarf.
But it might surprise you to learn that the kitchen is actually the number one place where people use a promotional product. According to APPA, 91% of people have at least one promotional product in their kitchen. Promotional products are also used a lot in the office, where 74% of people have at least one promotional product on their desk.
What are the Most Popular Promotional Products?
Pens and coffee mugs are among the most popular promotional items, followed by flash drives, lip balm and shopping bags. Cheap promotional items such as badges, wristbands, mouse-mats and cheap novelties also feature among the most popular merchandise.
When are Promotional Products Used?
Promotional products can be distributed at any time but many businesses will distribute merchandise in conjunction with other marketing activities such as at the opening of a business or new store location, at trade shows, conferences, or in the lead up to Christmas. Some employers will give promotional products to their employees at Christmas or as a reward for a job well done.