So, what’s next?
Year after year we’re asked the same question. “What’s new?”, “What exciting items do you have?” While it’s sometimes necessary to capitalize on trend: fidget spinner (2018) or a reusable straw (2019), we think 2020 will be the year where we have more clients looking for name brand products. 2019 has already brought an uptick in the name brand sales from Yeti drinkware to up-and-coming retail apparel brands like Marine Layer.
Customized brand name items have higher and longer retention than most of the alternatives. Retail brands make great executive gifts, door openers, thank you gifts, and higher-end trade show giveaways. Our team can help narrow down a strategy for your next promotion. A sampling of retail brands can also be found here.
Apparel Brands to Watch
Marine Layer, Patagonia, Travis Matthew, North Face
Notable Drinkware Brands
Yeti Tumblers, Blender Bottle, Contigo, Welly, Corkcicle
Popular Accessories Brands
Mophie Chargers, InCase Bags, Bose, Tumi, Bang & Olufsen
Is it worth the extra spend?
No question!
While retail brands do have a higher price point, your clients will definitely take notice. You sometimes only have one shot to make a great first impression. It’s best not to miss the mark with a middle or lower-tier brand. Clients often don’t fine the same value in the gift as they would have with the name brand alternative, even though price-points are similar.