Swag, freebies and promotional merchandise comes in many forms: pens, water bottles, USB sticks, clothing, giant flamingoes.
The options are endless. We’re all aware of it and, so the research shows, we’re all influenced by it.
The first ever promotional T-shirt hyped The Wizard of Oz. Heard of the film? Of course! Not entirely because of the giveaways, but it all helps.
It’s effective: A recent study found that more than 70 per cent of people can recall the name of a company that gave them a freebie within the last year. Only half could name the company from a particular advert that same week.
Freebies get results: 85 per cent of people do business with a company after receiving their promotional merchandise. Strategy is key, getting the right products in the hands of the right people.
Promotional merchandise is ideal for any situation where you have a fleeting chance to make a lasting impression. Trade shows, for example, where your short encounter may be over but your free gift remains on their desk, wall, head, garden...
It can also be used as an inexpensive way to recognise existing customers (drop a freebie in with their latest order), employees or other friends of your business. They get a bonus something-for-nothing, in return you get free advertising.
Next, the item itself. I recommend something useful. These are the items kept the longest and have the biggest impact.
That’s why our neck buffs make such a great gift: they’re especially useful during the pandemic and cold weather, and with our reader offer they’re available at an excellent price.
Get in touch to find out more about our offer, or to discuss how we can help you make a memorable and lasting impression.
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Enjoyed this? Read more from Paul Gilbraith, Gilbraith Merchandising