159+ Genius Promotional Item Ideas (With Brand Case Studies)

Here's why coming up with the right promotional item ideas is so important:

If the item doesn't match your audience’s needs or interests, it might get tossed aside—wasting both your budget and the opportunity to make an impact.

But when the idea is right—thoughtful, useful, and aligned with your brand—it grabs attention, starts conversations, and keeps your brand top of mind long after the event.

"84% of people say promotional items increase their brand awareness!

This is a clear indication that promotional products leave a stronger, longer-lasting brand impression.

70% of companies use promotional items to achieve marketing goals!

And, 52% of people feel more positive about a brand after receiving a promotional item!"

It's pretty clear that promotional items can help people remember your brand.

But if done wrong, you can lose a lot of money!

So how to research and come up with the ideas that will ensure you get the most ROI?

We have made it easy for you!

In this blog, we've listed 159+ proven promotional item ideas for different industries, occasions, and events. You’ll find products that people actually want to keep, use, and talk about.

Our TSSL Lab team surveyed over 3,000 receivers, yes, the end users,to understand their thoughts on promotional products, the types of items they value most, and the giveaways they look forward to receiving from brands in 2025.

We've also analyzed recent case studies from top brands that have successfully used promotional items to achieve their marketing goals, boost customer loyalty, and increase engagement.

So, whether you're in retail, education, healthcare, tech, or any other industry, we've got you covered with creative ideas to help your brand stand out and grow.

Let's check out 159+ promotional item ideas that you can use for your brand.

Why Use Promotional Items for Your Brand?

Here's the data on how promotional items help businesses grow:

Why Promotional Products Work in 2025

Here's research from the PPAI consumer study that shows why promotional products work so well in 2025!

• 8 out of 10 people like receiving promotional products.
• 7 out of 10 people wish they received more promotional items.
• 79% of people pass along promotional products they no longer need.
• 80% of people have an immediate reaction when they receive promotional items from companies they’ve never heard of.
• Almost 10 out of 10 people are willing to go out of their way to get a promotional product.
• 96% of people want to know ahead of time when companies give out promotional products.

(Credit: PPAI)

Trending Promotional Items for 2025

Promotional items have always been a powerful tool for grabbing attention and advertising your brand. However, in 2025, it’s no longer just about distributing items with your logo—it’s about offering products that genuinely resonate with your audience.

At GiftAFeeling, our TSSL lab has conducted in-depth research to identify the top trending promotional items for 2025 and determine which will be most effective in building strong connections with your target audience.

Based on our research, here is a list of the top trending promotional items for 2025:

Trending Promotional Items Received by People

Promotional Item Ideas for Specific Industries & Occasions

1. Promotional Item Ideas for the Education Industry

Promotional items have become an essential part of communication and engagement strategies for educational institutions. Schools and universities use branded items not only for visibility, but also to foster a positive learning environment, build a sense of community, and meaningfully recognize students, staff, and alumni.

Whether you're organizing orientation, managing campus events, promoting a student club, or strengthening alumni ties, choosing the right promotional items depends on your goals, audience, and setting.

Below, we’ve shared a list of ideas tailored to various school and university programs—each chosen for its relevance, usefulness, and ability to leave a lasting impression.

Check out our best-selling promotional items for schools, clubs, and alumni events here: Promotional Products For Education Industry

2. Promotional Item Ideas for Nonprofits and Fundraisers

Running a nonprofit means stretching every dollar and making every message count. Promotional items can help you do both. Whether you're trying to raise money, thank volunteers, or just get more eyes on your cause, the right item can do more than advertise—it can spark real support.

Think about the last fundraiser you held. Did you have something to hand out? A simple tote bag, water bottle, or wristband can turn a one-time donor into someone who remembers you the next time. And if you're setting up at a local event or walkathon, having useful giveaways makes it easier to start conversations—and keep your mission top of mind.

Below, we've shared a list of practical and budget-friendly ideas that nonprofits can use to raise money, thank supporters, or spread their message.

3. Conference Merchandise Ideas

If you’ve ever been to a conference or trade show, you know how quickly things can blur together. What makes one booth stand out from the rest often comes down to the small things—like a useful merch that attendees actually want to keep. That’s where the right conference giveaways come in.

Whether you’re trying to draw attention to your booth, welcome guests, or thank speakers, branded merch can help you connect with people in a more memorable way. But not every event calls for the same kind of swag. What works for a tech summit may not work for a leadership retreat.

So, we’ve put together a list of ideas based on different types of event needs—items people will actually use, appreciate, and remember.

4. Promotional Product Ideas for the Healthcare Industry

In healthcare, the small things often go a long way. A hand sanitizer at the reception desk, a pill organizer in a patient’s care kit, or a compression sock gift pack for nurses pulling 12-hour shifts—these aren’t just giveaways. They’re little acts of support that show people you understand what they’re going through.

Unlike other industries, healthcare doesn’t use promotional products just for brand visibility—it’s also about education, comfort, and care. A magnet with emergency numbers can help families. A branded notebook for tracking blood pressure can help patients stay consistent with treatment. Even a simple water bottle at a wellness fair encourages better habits.

The key is to think beyond the logo. Who’s receiving the item? What’s their daily life like? Are you helping them feel safer, more informed, or more supported?

Below, you'll find a list of healthcare-specific promo ideas that fit different areas of the industry—from patient care and staff appreciation to wellness programs and community outreach.

Need more ideas? Check out our collection of healthcare promotional products made for clinics, hospitals, and health events.

5. Promotional Item Ideas for the Finance Industry

If you've ever walked into a bank, sat through a tax consultation, or met with a financial advisor, you know that trust is everything. But here’s the thing—first impressions don’t just come from numbers and contracts. Sometimes, it’s the small touches that stick with people. A sleek pen. A well-designed folder. A thoughtful gift after a big meeting.

In finance, where relationships are built on credibility and attention to detail, the right promotional items can quietly reinforce your brand’s reliability. Whether you're welcoming a new client, running a seminar, or thanking a long-time partner, giving something useful and professional can go a long way.

So, we’ve put together a list of promo items that fit right in with the finance world—products that feel intentional, practical, and worth holding onto.

Want more ideas? Check out our collection of promo products made for banks, advisors, and other finance businesses.

6. Promotional Item Ideas for the Tech Industry

If you’ve ever walked through a tech conference or visited a startup expo, you’ve probably noticed one thing—everyone’s handing out something. But let’s be honest, not all giveaways are created equal. In an industry where people live on their laptops and move fast, the best promotional items are the ones that actually fit into their everyday workflow.

Whether you’re launching a new product, hiring at a career fair, or hosting a developer meetup, the right swag can do more than just carry your logo. It can start a conversation, get used on a daily basis, or even spark a bit of excitement in someone’s day.

Below, you'll find a list of tech-specific promo ideas suitable for different areas of the industry—from product launches and developer meetups to remote teams, conferences, and employee swag kits.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our Tech Promo Collection—designed for startups, remote teams, and events like conferences and demos.

7. Promotional Item Ideas for the Retail Industry

If you've ever gone into a store and come back with a small freebie—like a reusable bag, a thank-you note, or a discount card—you probably remembered that brand a little more than the others. That’s the power of thoughtful promotional items in retail.

In a space where competition is high and customer attention is limited, small branded touches can go a long way. Whether you're looking to boost foot traffic, reward loyal shoppers, or enhance the unboxing experience, the right promotional product can add value and keep your brand in mind even after the sale.

Not every retailer needs the same type of product. What works for a boutique might not make sense for a grocery store or an online shop. So, we’ve pulled together a list of ideas based on different retail needs—items your customers will actually use, appreciate, and remember.

If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our collection of retail promo products—created for stores, pop-ups, and online shops.

8. Promotional Item Ideas for the Agriculture Industry

If you've ever spent time on a farm or attended an agri-trade show, you know that practicality matters more than flash. In agriculture, people are busy, outdoors, and always hands-on. So when it comes to promotional items, what stands out most are the things that are useful in the field, not just at a desk.

Whether you’re looking to build relationships with farmers, support co-op members, thank your suppliers, or show up strong at a rural event, promotional products can help your brand stay visible and appreciated. But what works for a seed supplier might not be right for an equipment manufacturer.

So, we’ve pulled together a list of ideas based on different agriculture-related needs—items that people will actually use, value, and keep close in their daily routine.

Looking for more product ideas? Check out our collection of ag promo items—made for farms, expos, and rural events.

9. Promotional Item Ideas for Sports Youth

When it comes to youth sports, it’s not just about winning games—it’s about building team spirit, having fun, and creating memories that last. If you’ve ever been part of a team or cheered from the sidelines, you know how the little things—like a matching shirt or a fun water bottle—can make athletes feel part of something special.

That's where the right sports promotional items come in. Whether you're sponsoring a local league, organizing a tournament, or showing appreciation to players and coaches, branded gear helps everyone feel included and excited.

From custom tees to sporty giveaways, below we’ve shared a list of sports promotional products that youth athletes, parents, and coaches will actually love, use, and remember—long after the final whistle blows.

10. Best Promotional Items to Give Away

We’ve all experienced it: you go to an event, receive a freebie, and find yourself using that item regularly. It could be a branded hat, a durable water bottle, or a quality tote bag—and before you know it, that brand stays with you. This is the real power of practical promotional giveaway items—they do more than just advertise; they build trust and loyalty.

But not all promo items have the same effect. In today’s competitive world, standing out means offering products that your audience genuinely needs and appreciates. A branded pen might end up in a drawer, but a reusable water bottle will travel with your customer daily, keeping your brand visible and top-of-mind.

So, whether you’re looking to reward loyal customers, boost event attendance, or simply increase brand visibility, we’ve compiled a list of giveaway items that will not only stand out, but also be used and remembered—no matter your industry or event.

11. Best Promotional Items for Small Businesses

Many challenges come up when running a small business, and one of the toughest is standing out in a crowded marketplace. Promotional items can help you get noticed, but it’s about more than just handing out free stuff—it’s about giving away items that people will actually use.

Whether you're trying to thank loyal customers, attract new ones, or make your brand more memorable, the right promotional products can be an effective tool. But not every giveaway works the same. A high-end pen might be perfect for a corporate client, but a durable water bottle is better suited for an outdoor event.

So, below, we’ve shared a list of promotional items for small businesses that are practical, affordable, and guaranteed to make a lasting impression—because when your customers use these items, they’ll remember your brand.

3. Promotional Items That Work Best for Men and Women

According to the latest data from the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), some promotional items are more popular with specific genders.

Let's break it down:

1. Promotional Outerwear

Outerwear and fleece items are popular with both men and women, but there are some differences:

• 57% of men own promotional outerwear (such as jackets or fleece clothing).
  
• 43% of women own promotional outerwear.

Outerwear is a fantastic promotional product for both men and women. It’s practical, durable, and gets used for a long time, making it an excellent way to market your business!

(Credit: ASI)

2. Writing Instruments

Promotional writing instruments, especially logoed pens, are highly preferred by both men and women in the U.S.

Here are the key details:

• 46% of men own branded pens, which shows their strong preference for this promotional item.
• 54% of women own logoed writing instruments, indicating a higher preference among women.

Writing instruments are not only cost-effective but also offer great visibility and longevity for your brand.

(Credit: ASI)

3. Promotional Bags

Promotional bags are popular with both men and women.
Here’s why:

• 57% of women own a promotional bag, showing they really like them.
  
• 42% of men own branded bags, showing they like them too.
  
• Bags can create 5,700 impressions, meaning people will see your brand many times.

(Credit: ASI)

4. Promotional Caps & Headwear

Caps are popular giveaways! 41% of people in the U.S. own a promotional hat.
Here’s why they work well, according to research:

• 52% of men in rural areas like wearing branded hats.
  
• 77% of people in Florida wear their promotional hats once a week or more.
  
• 42% of people keep their hats because they think they look good.

Hats are great for advertising because they get seen a lot. Each hat can make 3,136 impressions!

(Credit: ASI)

4. Brand Case Studies

Case Study #1: Milwaukee Tool Sent 1,900 Promotional Kits to Boost Excitement at Their Sales Meeting

Milwaukee Tool wanted to make their quarterly sales meeting more exciting and meaningful for the team. Instead of holding a standard meeting, they decided to send a free promotional kit to everyone who confirmed their attendance.

In this case study, you'll see how unique promotional items boosted engagement and reinforced the brand's message.

Let's take a step-by-step look at how Milwaukee Tool made this all possible.

Company Overview

Company: Milwaukee Tool
Company Size: 5,001–10,000 Employees
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Sales Meeting Attendees

Primary Objective

The primary objective was to provide free promotional kits to attendees of Milwaukee Tool's quarterly sales meeting, thereby increasing brand cohesion and excitement.

Strategy and Execution

Milwaukee Tool held a quarterly sales meeting to bring the team together and confirm whether everyone was working toward the same goals. To make the meeting more exciting, they decided to offer free promotional kits to attendees—but only to those who had confirmed their attendance.

The marketing team selected branded swag items such as golf balls, caps, bottle openers, and corporate umbrellas, and prepared various theme-based kits. They set up a special website where attendees could pick their kit, with each person allowed to choose only one.

Results

More than 1,900 promotional kits were sent out, and the response was great. People were more excited to attend the meeting and felt more engaged with the event. The promotional swag kits also helped remind everyone of the company’s goals and fostered a stronger sense of team spirit and brand pride.

Similar Product Recommendations

Planning a team event or company meeting? Here are some of the most effective promotional items Milwaukee Tool used to build excitement and create a memorable experience:

1. Branded Apparel
2. Golf Balls
3. Caps
4. Bottle Openers
5. Corporate Umbrellas

Case Study #2: Synextra's Innovative Rebrand Launch with Promotional Items

When Synextra Limited decided to revamp its brand, the team wanted the launch to be memorable—not just for customers, but for their employees too. To do that, they created a custom welcome pack filled with fun and useful promotional items that showcased the new brand identity.

In this case study, you'll see how creative promotional products helped make Synextra’s rebrand more exciting, personal, and memorable.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how Synextra brought their new look to life.

Company Overview

Company: Synextra Ltd.
Industry: IT Services and IT Consulting
Company Size: 11–50 Employees
Organizer Country: United Kingdom
Target Audience: Synextra Team and Clients

Primary Objective

The goal was to create a welcome pack with useful promotional items for both the team and customers, helping to refresh and promote Synextra’s new brand identity.

Strategy & Execution

The plan was to showcase what Synextra stands for in a fun and creative way. They selected useful swag items, such as custom mugs, notebooks, pens, and, socks, to feature their new logo. Each item was packed into a special box and shipped on time for the brand launch. The goal was to make the new identity feel authentic, exciting, and personal.

Results

The welcome packs were delivered on time and were a big hit. Synextra’s team and clients gave positive feedback and felt proud to be part of the rebranding process.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a rebrand or refreshing your internal branding, here are some useful promotional products that Synextra found effective:

1. Custom Mugs – Perfect for everyday use and subtle brand exposure
2. Notebooks – Great for notes, meetings, or onboarding
3. Pens – Simple, practical, and always needed
4. Custom Socks – Fun, wearable, and a creative way to show off your brand

Case Study #3: BPH Celebrated 50 Years with Marketing Promotional Items

For its 50th anniversary, BPH wanted to do something meaningful for both staff and customers. They chose high-quality marketing promotional items that were thoughtful, practical, and perfectly aligned with their brand.

In this case study, you'll see how promotional giveaway items transformed a company milestone into a powerful branding moment—while making people feel genuinely appreciated.

Let's take a closer look at how BPH made all of this possible.

Company Overview

Company: BPH
Company Size: 51–200 Employees
Organizer Country: United Kingdom
Target Audience: Staff and Customers

Primary Objective

The goal was to celebrate BPH's 50th anniversary with high-quality marketing promotional products that would show appreciation to both employees and customers while reinforcing the brand’s identity.

Strategy & Execution

BPH created elegant corporate gift sets using marketing swag items like engraved wine glasses, branded wine bottles, gourmet snacks, and custom awards. Their logo was engraved on both the bottles and glasses to add a personal, high-end touch. Each item was neatly packed in sleek black boxes, complete with a 50th-anniversary card and a branded gift bag. These promotional kits were distributed during meetings and customer visits—helping BPH leave a lasting impression and keep their brand top of mind long after the celebration.

Results

The response was fantastic. Both employees and customers loved the gift sets—and many even asked if more were available.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a company anniversary or milestone, here are a few marketing promotional products to consider:

1. Engraved Wineglasses – Elegant and long-lasting
2. Branded Wine Bottle Openers – Memorable, practical, and stylish.
3. Custom Awards – Great for recognition and internal branding
4. Personalized Leather Journals – High-end, useful, and ideal for thoughtful branding
5. Branded Desk Accessories – Items like customized pens, notebooks, and organizers to keep your brand in view daily
6. Custom Gift Baskets – A mix of treats, branded products, and thoughtful surprises
7. Engraved Plaques – A lasting, prestigious item to celebrate significant milestones
8. Eco-friendly Promotional Products – Reusable tote bags, bamboo pens, or recycled notebooks for a sustainable brand message
9. Custom Apparel – Branded shirts, jackets, and caps that employees and customers can wear with pride

Case Study #4: Newton Europe's Quick Turnaround for a Major Golf Event in Portugal

Newton Europe needed to create high-quality golf gift sets for an upcoming event in Portugal—and only had two weeks to get it done. Rather than settling for a basic solution, the team came up with creative swag items that perfectly fit the theme and purpose of the event.

In this case study, you'll see how the right products, delivered on time, turned a simple giveaway into a memorable and professional brand experience.

Let's take a closer look at how Newton Europe made it happen—on time and better than expected.

Company Overview

Company: Newton Europe
Company Size: 201–500 Employees
Organizer Country: United Kingdom
Target Audience: Golf Event Attendees

Primary Objective

The objective was to design and deliver a premium golf gift set for an international event, all within a tight two-week timeframe.

Strategy & Execution

For the Newton Europe project, the plan was to quickly create a fancy golf gift box for an event in Portugal. The team chose high-quality golf gear, like golf balls, towels, divot tools, and ball markers. They worked quickly to design a special welcome card that made the box feel extra special. Everything was completed ahead of schedule—finishing two days early—which made the client and their team very happy with the final product.

Results

The gift sets were a hit. The client loved the look, quality, and fast turnaround. Newton Europe’s team gave glowing feedback, saying the kits turned out even better than expected.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a golf event or tournament, here are some golf promotional products to consider:

1. Branded Golf Balls – A staple for any golf event and easy to customize
2. Custom Towels – Useful on the course and a great spot for your logo
3. Divot Tool and Ball Markers – Small, functional, and perfect for giveaways

Case Study #5: Phorest Distributed 600 Branded Kits at the Salon Owners Summit

Phorest wanted to make a lasting impression at the Salon Owners Summit in Ireland. To achieve this, they prepared 600 promotional kits for all attendees, each filled with practical branded swag items.

In this case study, you'll see how unique promotional items boosted brand recognition, built goodwill, and kept the business top of mind.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how 600 promotional kits helped boost Phorest’s brand visibility.

Company Overview

Company: Phorest
Company Size: 201–500 Employees
Organizer Country: Ireland
Target Audience: Event Attendees

Primary Objective

The goal was to provide useful promotional swag kits to all 600 Salon Owners Summit attendees, helping them remember the Phorest brand during the event and beyond.

Strategy & Execution

Through ongoing conversations via email and video calls, Phorest and the account team worked closely to understand the brand’s needs and select promotional items that would perfectly align with their goals. Since the summit aimed to showcase Phorest’s latest features and tools, Phorest wanted to offer attendees practical promotional products they could use—and remember.

The final kit included branded tote bags, notebooks, and reusable water bottles—items that were useful during the event and continued to promote the brand long after it ended.

Results

The kits were a hit. Attendees appreciated the high-quality items and began using them right away. As people carried the tote bags or used their water bottles post-event, Phorest’s brand gained more visibility. This helped create positive brand associations and generated more interest from potential clients.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a large-scale event or summit, here are some useful promotional swag items that work well for any type of audience or occasion:

1. Branded Tote Bags – Practical, stylish, and great for carrying event materials
2. Custom Notebooks – Perfect for note-taking during sessions and beyond
3. Reusable Water Bottles – Eco-friendly and ideal for daily use

Case Study #6: Abbott's Eco-Friendly Promotional Items Made an Impact at Their Ireland Meeting

Abbott Nutrition wanted to offer something thoughtful and sustainable at their high-profile meeting in Ireland. Their goal was to give attendees practical, eco-friendly promotional items that aligned with the company’s values and left a lasting impression.

In this case study, you'll see how eco-friendly promotional products reinforced the message and showcased Abbott's commitment to sustainability.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how Abbott used eco-friendly promotional merchandise to support their brand values.

Company Overview

Company: Abbott Nutrition
Company Size: 10,001+ Employees
Organizer Country: Ireland
Target Audience: Abbott Nutrition Clients

Primary Objective

The main goal was to provide useful, eco-friendly promo items for an important Abbott meeting held in Ireland.

Strategy & Execution

The account manager connected directly with Abbott’s project leader through video calls to fully understand their needs. During their conversations, it became clear that Abbott was looking for eco-conscious products that attendees would genuinely use and appreciate. The team carefully selected a set of sustainable swag items, including drawstring bags, notebooks, pens, lanyards, coffee cups, and reusable water bottles. Each item was chosen for its practicality, environmental appeal, and potential to leave a lasting impression.

Results

The project was completed on time and within budget—actually, ahead of time. The client was extremely satisfied, and the event giveaways were well-received by attendees.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're looking for sustainable promotional products for your next corporate event, here are a few worth considering:

1. Drawstring Bags – Lightweight, reusable, and great for event handouts
2. Notebooks & Pens – Perfect for meetings and easy to brand
3. Lanyards – Practical for events and easy to customize
4. Reusable Coffee Cups – A green alternative to single-use cups
5. Water Bottles – Keeps your brand visible long after the event

Case Study #7: Pride Month Fun with Wag N' Wash's Rainbow Promo Kits

Wag N' Wash wanted to celebrate Pride Month in a way that reflected their values of inclusivity, kindness, and unconditional love. They aimed to create a playful and meaningful promotional kit that would engage customers, excite pet owners, and increase brand visibility during the June campaign.

In this case study, you'll see how fun and thoughtful promotional items helped Wag N’ Wash support a meaningful cause—and strengthen its connection with the community.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how Wag N' Wash turned simple giveaways into a meaningful Pride Month experience for their customers.

Company Overview

Company: Wag N’ Wash
Company Size: 51–200 Employees
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Wag N’ Wash Customer

Primary Objective

To support Wag N’ Wash’s Pride Month campaign through fun and branded promotional kits.

Strategy & Execution

Wag N’ Wash wanted the promo kits to feel fun, meaningful, and true to their brand. The team chose rainbow-colored tennis balls, frisbees, and branded pens—items that both pets and their owners would enjoy, while also showing support for Pride Month.

Account Manager Jess worked closely with suppliers to add the Wag N’ Wash logo to each product. Everything was ready in time for the June launch, helping the campaign roll out smoothly and making the message of inclusivity easy to share.

All promo kits were delivered on time for the June launch, helping the campaign run smoothly and allowing Wag N’ Wash to share their message in a fun, memorable way.

Results

The Pride Month kits were a hit with customers. People loved the colorful, pet-friendly promotional items, and the excitement around the campaign helped Wag N’ Wash stand out. As customers shared and used the items, the brand’s message of inclusivity came through in a way that felt genuine and joyful—exactly what the campaign set out to do.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a themed event or seasonal campaign, here are a few thoughtful promo ideas worth considering:

1. Rainbow-Colored Frisbees – Lightweight, fun, and easy to brand
2. Branded Pens – Simple, useful, and always in demand
3. Custom Tote Bags – Great for carrying event materials or daily use
4. Custom Socks – Fun, wearable, and a creative way to show off your brand
5. Water Bottles – Reusable, eco-friendly, and perfect for any event
6. Pet Bandanas – Adorable, practical, and ideal for pet-themed promotions

Case Study #8: Phone Holders Draw the Right Crowd at Tech Company Booth

At a major industry trade show, a U.S.-based tech company aimed to find promotional giveaways that were affordable, practical, and appealing to their ideal customers.

In this case study, you'll see how a simple, budget-friendly promotional item helped drive booth traffic, start real conversations, and open doors to new business opportunities.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how one low-cost giveaway delivered high-impact results.

Industry Overview

Industry: Tech
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Potential Customers

Primary Objective

The goal was to find a budget-friendly giveaway that would grab attention, attract the right audience, and spark meaningful engagement at the trade show.

Strategy & Execution

The Tech company needed a giveaway that would stand out without stretching the budget. After the marketing team brainstormed several promotional item ideas, they decided on phone holders—practical, lightweight, and universally appealing. Once branded with the company’s logo and offered at the booth, the giveaway quickly caught attention.

Word spread fast. People from other parts of the venue came over just to grab one, which gave the company more opportunities to connect with potential customers.

The Result

The phone holders were a hit. They attracted the right audience, sparked conversation and gave the team valuable opportunities to introduce the company's products to potential customers.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a trade show or large event, here’s a low-cost promotional product that consistently draws attention:

Phone Holders – A simple, budget-friendly giveaway that keeps your brand visible on desks, nightstands, and workspaces—long after the event ends.

Case Study #9: Ted Lasso Season 2 Launch Event Success Story

To build excitement around the launch of Ted Lasso Season 2, the team needed fun, creative promotional items that would capture the show's uplifting “Believe” theme. With a tight deadline and pandemic-related logistics challenges, their goal was to generate buzz across Los Angeles through a series of creative pop-up events.

In this case study, you'll see how creative promos and strong execution turned everyday fans into superfans—fast.

Let's break it down step by step to see how the right promotional items made the Season 2 launch truly unforgettable.

Company Overview

Client: Ted Lasso
Location: Los Angeles
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Pop-up Event Attendees

Primary Objective

To create and deliver fun, high-quality promotional items for the Ted Lasso Season 2 launch—on time, on theme, and within budget.

Strategy & Execution

The team worked closely with the show’s network to brainstorm creative promotional giveaway ideas that would capture the energy and optimism of Ted Lasso. Despite the tight timeline, they selected a thoughtful mix of branded rally towels, water bottles, soccer stress balls, lapel pins, and bumper stickers.

Production moved quickly—some items were produced and delivered within just 24 hours. Pop-up booths were set up across Los Angeles, where fans could grab the merch and celebrate the Season 2 launch in true Ted Lasso style.

Results

The event giveaways excited fans, encouraged social sharing, and boosted awareness of the new season. The campaign not only delighted attendees but also attracted new audiences, helping expand the show's reach in a fun, authentic way.

Similar Product Recommendations

If you're planning a high-energy launch or themed pop-up, here are a few standout giveaway items that helped bring the Ted Lasso experience to life—and can generate the same kind of buzz for your next campaign:

1. Branded Rally Towels – Fun, energetic, and perfect for crowd moments or fan selfies
   
2. Reusable Water Bottles – Always appreciated, easy to customize, and great for daily visibility
   
3. Soccer Stress Balls – A playful tie-in to sports themes that people love to keep
   
4. Custom Lapel Pins – Collectible and stylish—ideal for fans, staff, or VIPs
   
5. Custom Bumper Stickers – Affordable, bold, and built to spread your brand beyond the event

Case Study #10: Attentive Honors Admin Professionals with Personalized Promo Items

When Admin Professionals Day came around, Attentive Media didn’t want to just say "thanks"—they wanted their team to feel genuinely appreciated. So instead of sending a generic message, they put together a set of customized promotional items that felt thoughtful, personal, and worth remembering.

In this case study, you'll see how even a small, well-planned gesture—like custom promo items—can go a long way in recognizing the people who help your company thrive.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how custom branded promotional items helped Attentive celebrate their team in a thoughtful and memorable way.

Company Overview

Company: Attentive Media
Company Size: 1,500 Employees
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Admin Professionals

Primary Objective

The aim was to celebrate Admin Professionals Day with customized promotional items that would make the team feel valued.

Strategy & Execution

The team set up a dedicated online shop with a curated selection of custom-branded promotional products for their admin staff. After brainstorming thoughtful ideas, they selected useful and personal gifts—like custom caps, branded T-shirts, personalized stationery, and a few handpicked snacks.

Each item was chosen to show appreciation and give recipients something they’d truly enjoy, both on and off the job.

Results

All 15 admin professionals received their customized gifts, and the campaign saw a 100% redemption rate. More importantly, it left a lasting impression on the team, helping them feel appreciated in a fun, meaningful way.

Similar Product Recommendations

Looking to recognize your internal team? Here are a few thoughtful promotional swag items that helped Attentive make Admin Professionals Day truly memorable:

1. Customized Caps – Casual, wearable, and easy to personalize
2. Custom T-Shirts – Great for team spirit or relaxing outside the office
3. Branded Foods – A small, tasty way to brighten someone’s day
4. Custom Stationery – Practical and perfect for daily use

Case Study #11: Salesforce Brings Brand Mascots to Life with Plush Toys

Salesforce wanted to create something memorable—something that would truly engage their customers and bring their beloved brand mascots to life. Their goal was to design high-quality plush toys that would stay true to each character, reinforced the brand, and made learning about technology more fun and approachable.

In this case study, you'll see how well-designed, creative promo items can do more than market your brand—they can connect with your audience on a deeper, emotional level.

Let's go step by step through this case study to see how Salesforce did it.

Company Overview

Company: Salesforce
Company Size: 10,001+ Employees
Organizer Country: United States
Target Audience: Salesforce Customers

Primary Objective

To create branded plush toys that accurately reflected Salesforce’s mascot characters and to deepen customer engagement in a fun, creative way.

Strategy & Execution

The global team partnered closely with trusted suppliers to design plush toys that brought Salesforce’s mascots to life. From stitching and colors to small accessories, every detail was thoughtfully reviewed to ensure the final products would feel true to the brand.

Even with tight timelines and a complex design process, everything was delivered on schedule and within budget—earning great feedback for both quality and creativity.

Results

The plush toys went beyond expectations. They made learning more enjoyable, encouraged meaningful customer interactions, and inspired the Salesforce community to embrace their role as Trailblazers.

Similar Product Recommendation

If your brand has characters, icons, or a strong visual identity, plush toys can help bring that story to life.

Custom Plush Toys – A creative way to turn your brand’s characters or themes into something tangible, thoughtful, and easy for customers to connect with.

FAQs

1. What are the most popular promotional items for 2025?

Drinkware, such as mugs and water bottles, is one of the most popular promotional products for 2025. Here's why it works so well:

• 53% of U.S. people own a promotional drinkware item, like a branded cup or bottle.
  
• 56% of people in suburban areas like drinkware with logos on them.
  
• In the Pacific Northwest, 61% of people have logoed drinkware.
  
• 50% of people who own a promotional drinkware item use it at least 2-3 times a week, keeping your brand visible regularly.

Drinkware is not only practical but also offers great value, as it consistently gets impressions over time.

2. Which promotional item is most effective?

Based on user feedback, a USB drive is one of the most effective promotional items for business giveaways.

Here's why it works well:

• 45% of people in the U.S. have a promotional USB drive.
  
• Younger people, especially those aged 18-24, like USB drives the most (60% own them).
  
• 91% of people keep their USB drives because they are helpful.

3. What is the most useful promotional item for business giveaways?

Research shows that mobile power banks are among the most appreciated promotional products for business giveaways.

Here's why it work well:

• 26% of U.S. consumers own a promotional mobile power bank.
• 87% of consumers would keep a promotional power bank because it’s useful.
  
• Mobile power banks generate 1,034 impressions over their lifetime, making them great for brand visibility.
• 60% of consumers say they would be more likely to do business with the advertiser who gave them the power bank.

Mobile power banks are a great choice for giveaways, as they are not only useful but also help keep your brand visible and top of mind.

4. What are the best promotional items for schools?

Popular school promotional items include stationery essentials (custom pens, notebooks, pencil cases), student gear (drawstring bags, water bottles, lunch boxes), tech accessories (branded USB drives, headphone cases, phone wallets), and classroom essentials (sticky notes, rulers, highlighters).

5. What is the best promotional item to advertise?

The best advertising promo items include reusable bags (custom tote bags, grocery totes), drinkware (branded mugs, tumblers, water bottles), wearables (t-shirts, hats, jackets), and tech items (phone stands, power banks, USB drives). Tote bags are especially effective—according to ASI, they generate over 3,300 impressions in their lifetime.

6. What are the cheapest promotional items?

The cheapest promotional items under $1 include custom pens, stickers, magnets, keychains, and button badges. These low-cost items are easy to hand out and work well at events, trade shows, and promotional giveaways.

7. Merchandising items ideas

Here's a list of popular merchandising items you can use for company stores, influencer merch, or trade shows:

1. Branded apparel (t-shirts, hoodies)
   
2. Mugs
   
3. Notebooks
   
4. Reusable bags
   
5. Water bottles
   
6. Caps and beanies
   
7. Tote bags
   
8. Keychains
   
9. Mouse pads
   
10. Drawstring bags
    
11. Lanyards
    
12. Custom socks
13. Bottle openers

8. Marketing promotional items ideas

Here's a list of marketing promotional products you can use for campaigns, product launches, or client giveaways:

1. Custom tote bags
   
2. Branded water bottles
   
3. Pens and highlighters
   
4. Notebooks
   
5. Phone stands and grips
   
6. Mugs and tumblers
   
7. Lanyards
   
8. USB drives
   
9. Stickers
   
10. Keychains
    
11. Tech pouches
    
12. Caps
    
13. Desk calendars

9. What promotional items are best for giveaways at business events?

Here's a list of the best promo products for business event giveaways like trade shows, expos, and conferences:

1. Custom notebooks
   
2. Reusable water bottles
   
3. Branded pens
   
4. Phone stands and grips
   
5. Tote bags
   
6. Tech accessories
   
7. Lanyards
   
8. Sticky notes
   
9. Keychains
   
10. USB drives
    
11. Mugs
    
12. Hand sanitizers
    
13. Badge holders
    
14. Mouse pads
    
15. Drawstring bags

10. What are popular swag items?

Popular swag items include everyday wearables (custom caps, socks, and jackets), drinkware (water bottles, mugs, tumblers), tech gear (phone stands, USB hubs, Bluetooth speakers), and desk tools (notebooks, pens, sticky notes). You’ll also see event favorites like tote bags, lanyards, and keychains—plus fun extras like sticker packs, mini games, and branded snacks that people actually enjoy and use.

IMAGE REFERENCES

(Pinnacle Promotions)

(Actionpromote)

(Swaghut)

(Foxtrot Marketing)

(Hit Promo)

(Eagle411)

(Bystadium)

(Markecreativemerchandise)