There are many ways to grow your business and attract more customers and sales. One that you might not have considered yet is using branded products in your marketing.
In this article, we’ll discuss what these are and share some examples, why they work, and explore some strategies on how to use them to generate leads for your business. Let’s dive in.
What are Branded Products?
Branded products are items that feature a company’s logo, name, or unique design. They serve as a marketing tool to promote your business and increase brand awareness.
Essentially, they turn everyday items into promotional materials that remind people of your brand.
Here are some popular examples of promotional products:
- Pens – Custom pens with your company’s logo are a classic promotional item. They’re inexpensive and widely used, making them perfect for spreading brand awareness.
- Stickers – Custom stickers are fun. They can be stuck on laptops, water bottles, and notebooks, providing a constant reminder of your brand.
- Tote Bags – Eco-friendly and practical, tote bags with your brand’s design are great for trade shows and events. They offer plenty of space for your logo and message.
- Mugs – Branded mugs are a favorite for giveaways. They’re functional and keep your brand in front of people every morning.
- USB Drives – Custom USB drives are useful and often passed around, giving your brand more exposure.
- T-Shirts – Branded T-shirts turn your customers into walking advertisements. A well-designed shirt can become a favorite wardrobe piece, extending your brand’s reach.
- Keychains – Keychains are small, cost-effective, and always in demand. They keep your brand visible every time someone uses their keys.
- Notebooks – Custom notebooks are perfect for conferences and meetings. They offer a large surface area for your logo and message.
- Air Fresheners – Branded air fresheners are a unique promotional item. They keep your brand in view while freshening up cars and homes.
- Water Bottles – Branded water bottles are popular in the fitness and outdoor niches. They’re reusable, promoting both your brand and sustainability.
Now that you know what branded products are, let’s talk about the benefits of using them in your business.
Advantages
1. Increased Brand Recognition
They put your logo and name in front of more eyes. Every time someone uses a branded pen or wears a T-shirt with your logo, it’s a mini advertisement. This helps people remember your brand better.
2. Customer Loyalty
Giving away branded items can make customers feel valued. Everyone loves free stuff, and when they get a useful item, they think of your business fondly. This positive association encourages repeat business.
3. Cost-Effective Marketing
Compared to traditional advertising, promotional products offer a great return on investment. They often cost less than an ad campaign but continue promoting your brand for months or even years.
4. Creates a Professional Image
Using branded merchandise can make your business look more established and professional. Whether it’s a uniform with your logo or a branded notebook, it shows that you pay attention to details. This professionalism can build trust with customers.
5. Networking Opportunities
Handing out branded items at events or trade shows can help break the ice and start conversations. People are more likely to remember you if they walk away with a branded pen or keychain. It’s a great way to leave a lasting impression.
Now, here are some strategies on how to use promotional products to make more sales.
How to Use Branded Products to Attract More Customers
1. Giveaways at Events
Hosting or attending events like trade shows, fairs, or community gatherings provides a great opportunity to distribute branded products.
Giving away useful items like tote bags, pens, or water bottles ensures your brand stays with attendees long after the event. The more functional the item, the more likely it will be used and seen by others.
2. Customer Loyalty Programs
Incorporate promotional products into your customer loyalty programs. Offer items like mugs, T-shirts, or notebooks as rewards for repeat business or referrals.
3. Welcome Packages
Another idea is to create welcome packages for new customers that include branded merchandise.
It shows that you value your customers and enhances their initial experience with your brand.
4. Social Media Contests
Run social media contests where people can win branded items. Encourage followers to share your content and tag friends for a chance to win.
This boosts engagement, extends your reach, and gets your branded products into the hands of potential new customers.
5. Collaborations with Influencers
You can also partner with influencers to distribute your branded products. They can create content featuring your items, like wearing a branded T-shirt or using a branded notebook. Their followers trust their recommendations, which can drive new customers to your business.
6. Employee Use
If you have a team, make sure that your employees use promotional items in their daily routines, especially if they interact with customers.
7. Subscription Boxes
Include branded products in subscription boxes. Whether you run your own subscription service or partner with existing ones, adding items like branded mugs or stickers can introduce your brand to a new audience. This strategy leverages the excitement of receiving a curated box of goodies.
8. Corporate Gifts
Last but not least, send branded items as corporate gifts to clients and partners.
High-quality items like engraved pens, premium notebooks, or custom USB drives can strengthen business relationships. These gifts are seen as thoughtful gestures, enhancing your brand’s reputation and fostering loyalty.
Final Words
As you can see, incorporating branded products into your business strategy can offer many benefits. From increasing brand recognition to creating a professional image, these items are a versatile and cost-effective way to market your business.
Consider investing in some branded products and apply some of the strategies we shared above on how to utilize them to attract more customers.