Unlike a fleeting print advert or social media campaign, branded merch has longevity for many months and if selected thoughtfully, plays a functional role in the lives of recipients too.

The world's biggest brands use these tools to:
  • build customer loyalty
  • spread their advertising messages
  • connect with customers
  • entrench recall
  • say thank you
  • motivate certain reactions, and
  • drive repeated brand recognition and equity for months, if not years.

Here are some insights on the key trends in the branded merchandise and apparel market, and the important considerations in selecting your branded merch:

Social compacts

Brands aren't just using apparel and promo goods for functionality, but also for the impact that they can have on social, environmental and personal initiatives. Similarly, many brands look to products that promote a healthier lifestyle, and there is a big focus on the sustainability of materials used — think bamboo, seeded papers and a shift away from plastic. 

For most brands, they're looking for branded products that reflect their commitment to societal and environmental initiatives. Bottom line: Brands are looking for more socially conscious promotional product choices that reflect their values.

Form meets function 

Besides having apparel that’s intended for the workplace, garments that can be worn at work and then after hours and on the weekend are all the rage. Light-weight knitwear, hoodies and fleece with functional features and comfort are top of mind.

More and more users are also looking for styles that can meet their needs for ease and comfort at work, at home and at play. Apparel trends show a distinct emphasis on health and wellness items, with outerwear and performance gear ranked as the gifts and giveaways employees and customers want most.

Memorable experiences matter

After almost three years of the pandemic, events, trade shows and launches are finally back in full swing. At the same time, businesses are also facing economic uncertainty, so they are looking to prioritise investment in the revenue-building activity, which means that creating the most memorable customer experiences is key.

Corporate gear and gifts will play a key role in providing a unique experience for attendees who make the effort to attend these events and trade shows — that keepsake that grabs attention and that attendees take home to reinforce the brand has never been more important.

Employee experience

More corporates are seeing their branded merch as a way to reinforce their brand values and embrace their diverse workforce.

Employee onboarding kits of curated items that reflect the company's brand, values and culture are all the rage. They are a powerful induction tool to entrench important messaging around the corporate visions and values, with useful and functional branded merchandise often forming part of the incentives provided in employee recognition and reward programs.

In getting to grips with the diversity and range of products and trends in the market, work with an experienced merchandise reseller in aligning your promotional strategy to business and marketing objectives.

As one of the largest promotional brand suppliers on the continent that only sells through a reseller network, Barron can attest to the value that an experienced reseller partner brings to the table, especially in terms of industry expertise and knowledge of emerging trends, helping your campaign stand out.

Other increasingly important aspects in the ESG space are also important considerations such as ethical sourcing and safety accreditation. A professional merch reseller will be able to propose products that are safe and reliable and that also represent the brand appropriately in terms of ethical sourcing and sustainability. 

For more information, visit www.barron.com. You can also follow Barron on Facebook or on Instagram.