The classic promotional items – pens, mugs, mousemats and clothing – will always be the first items that pop into any marketers head. Why? Because they offer great value and have great longevity!
Promotional pens range from the cost effective plastic versions right through to the engraved metal pens, ideal as a corporate gift. The range of pens is now staggering (on our own website we have nearly 7,000 pens to choose from) and with this comes a level of price comparison that rivals any product. In whatever currency, choose between cheap giveaways, medium priced desk top reminders or high end bespoke gift sets. And we’ve never even mentioned promotional pencils yet!
Promotional mugs have benefitted enormously from developments in printing technologies. Gone are the days when it was single colour print options in one position on the outside of the mug. Now we have printed insides of the mugs and photographic 360 degree reproduction on the outside of the mug. Not to mention the ability to pantone match!
Promotional mousemats now come in two broad ranges – cost effective and longer lasting (thanks to the outstanding reliability of the Brite Mat trade name). And we can now be even smarter in our marketing by taking advantage of the many presentation packs now on the market which include a mousemat and two matching promotional coasters.
And finally, corporate clothing which now benefits from the ability to meet fashion trends. So you can now offer your customers beanie hats, hooded sweaters and trendy neckerchiefs allowing the end user to be able to not think twice about wearing a branded piece of corporate clothing.
So, as ever, our advice at Code Promotional Merchandise is choose promotional products that make a lasting impression on the recipients by choosing the age old classics of promotional pens, mugs, mousemats and corporate clothing.
About The Author
Code Promotional Merchandise is an online supplier of promotional products and business gifts to businesses, charities and public sector organisations with products including promotional pens, promotional mugs, promotional umbrellas, promotional desk top items and eco friendly promotional giveaways.
Friday, 4 June 2010
Thursday, 3 June 2010
Choosing the right promotional item for a captive audience at exhibitions and conferences
One of the best ways to get your business name in front of potential customers is to attend industry trade shows. When you attend a trade show, however, you are given the opportunity to prove how much better your company is compared to the others. And one of the best ways to show off your business is with promotional products.
Having a stellar promotional product giveaway at a trade show is and one of the smartest marketing moves you can make for your business is to have a set of promotional items that convey professionalism, quality and impact. Or why not try the novel route, choosing a promotional product that will attract customers and prospect to your trade show booth like bees to honey. From there, your sales team can promote your business message and demonstrate why your company is better than the rest.
What about taking your trade show giveaways to a two tier approach? Choose a range of promotional items for a core audience and then supplement the offering with a range of give-aways for the masses. Put your business name on the folders, pens, bags and notebooks that are given to each trade show attendee for widespread promotional exposure. This provides a strong business case for the use of promotional merchandise in general as it shows the marketing budget is being tactically used and segmented according to the target audience’s propensity to spend with you (so giving you more credibility across the business).
So when you’re planning the next exhibition, keep promotional merchandise from Code Promotional Merchandise in mind during budget discussions…it could prove the most cost-effective element of an often costly exercise.
Having a stellar promotional product giveaway at a trade show is and one of the smartest marketing moves you can make for your business is to have a set of promotional items that convey professionalism, quality and impact. Or why not try the novel route, choosing a promotional product that will attract customers and prospect to your trade show booth like bees to honey. From there, your sales team can promote your business message and demonstrate why your company is better than the rest.
What about taking your trade show giveaways to a two tier approach? Choose a range of promotional items for a core audience and then supplement the offering with a range of give-aways for the masses. Put your business name on the folders, pens, bags and notebooks that are given to each trade show attendee for widespread promotional exposure. This provides a strong business case for the use of promotional merchandise in general as it shows the marketing budget is being tactically used and segmented according to the target audience’s propensity to spend with you (so giving you more credibility across the business).
So when you’re planning the next exhibition, keep promotional merchandise from Code Promotional Merchandise in mind during budget discussions…it could prove the most cost-effective element of an often costly exercise.
It’s all about image with promotional clothing
Promotional clothing is more than just clothes; they are a sign that the individual is a part of your business and is proud to be a member of that business. And that’s why promotional clothing items must be about quality and style above all else.
Whenever your employee (or customer for that matter!) wears a piece of promotional clothing, everyone who sees this individual will see your business name as well. So when you think about how many places an individual can travel in a single day by wearing promotional clothing with your branding on it, your business will have unparalleled advertising potential.
Corporate clothing is also a potential welcome gift for your employees and customers alike. Whether you give promotional shirts, promotional jackets, promotional polo shirts and promotional caps, your employees and customers will feel like they are part of a team, employees will appreciate being recognised for their hard work and will work even harder to be a part of your company. Scientific studies have shown that companies who encourage a team-building atmosphere in their professional environment also have a lower employee turnover rate. And as recruiting new employees can be a costly expense for growing businesses, so establishing a higher level of employee retention can be crucial to the future success of a business. In a similar way, all successful companies know that their foundation is built on a loyal customer base and promotional clothing and promotional apparel from Code Promotional Merchandise can encourage a stronger customer retention rate.
Whenever your employee (or customer for that matter!) wears a piece of promotional clothing, everyone who sees this individual will see your business name as well. So when you think about how many places an individual can travel in a single day by wearing promotional clothing with your branding on it, your business will have unparalleled advertising potential.
Corporate clothing is also a potential welcome gift for your employees and customers alike. Whether you give promotional shirts, promotional jackets, promotional polo shirts and promotional caps, your employees and customers will feel like they are part of a team, employees will appreciate being recognised for their hard work and will work even harder to be a part of your company. Scientific studies have shown that companies who encourage a team-building atmosphere in their professional environment also have a lower employee turnover rate. And as recruiting new employees can be a costly expense for growing businesses, so establishing a higher level of employee retention can be crucial to the future success of a business. In a similar way, all successful companies know that their foundation is built on a loyal customer base and promotional clothing and promotional apparel from Code Promotional Merchandise can encourage a stronger customer retention rate.
How can promotional merchandise work for your businesses marketing?
Whilst not underestimating the potential audiences that can be reached through traditional print advertising, tv and radio campaigns or the now increasingly popular online advertising, the costs for these can (and usually do) run into the thousands. Compare that to the cost of some great and effective promotional items that can cost you just pennies. For as little as £1 per unit you can get an item that can be put in the hands of a potential customer that has enormous retention value, keeping your brand message in view throughout the working day. After all, how many promotional pens have you got on your desk today?
But it’s not just about customer retention. You need to be thinking about recruitment and re-activation too. To recruit, you need impact and what better way than to look at the more obscure and funny promotional items in the marketplace. From character usb’s and shaped stress products through to novelty pens and cuddly toys…the possibilities to make a statement are endless!
So, our advice at Code Promotional Merchandise is to consider the use of the promotional item, consider your target audience, give yourself a realistic budget to work within and investigate how promotional items and corporate gifts can be a key element of your marketing plans and support the long-term growth of your business.
But it’s not just about customer retention. You need to be thinking about recruitment and re-activation too. To recruit, you need impact and what better way than to look at the more obscure and funny promotional items in the marketplace. From character usb’s and shaped stress products through to novelty pens and cuddly toys…the possibilities to make a statement are endless!
So, our advice at Code Promotional Merchandise is to consider the use of the promotional item, consider your target audience, give yourself a realistic budget to work within and investigate how promotional items and corporate gifts can be a key element of your marketing plans and support the long-term growth of your business.
Why allocate budget for promotional items? Let me explain...
As a marketing manager you will ultimately be asked to justify your decision making. So when the Finance Manager questions the cost of the exhibition support, let’s get the response ready!
High Retention Levels
If you get the giveaway right, then the recipient will keep it. And if you can give away a business gift that will actually save your prospect money then you really will be on to a winner. So consider a giveaway such as promotional pens (always handy), promotional mugs (never enough in the coffee cupboard) and promotional umbrellas (never going to get thrown away).
Message Longevity
No-one can suggest that a promotional item can compare with a TV advert. But what they lack in glamour they more than make up for in longevity. TV adverts are of course the most expensive form of advertising and whilst they may create a dramatic impact the majority are soon forgotten. The beauty of the promotional item is the message is retained, far beyond any cost benefit analysis threshold. Just ask yourself when was the last time you through a promotional baseball cap away|
More Useful Than an Advert
From promotional ice scrapers and promotional torches through to branded mobile phone holders and printed folders, most promotional items are useful in one way or another. As a result of this usefulness they will be retained...along with your brand and message.
Client Loyalty
Promotional merchandise is not just nicety. It can have a massive impact on your customers’ perception of you and your company. So next time they have a choice to make between suppliers, it could just be the factor that swings that order to you rather than the competition. And all because of that element of promotional merchandise that you gave away as a freebie!
To see a comprehensive range of the opportunities available to your business through promotional merchandise, simply visit www.codepromotional.co.uk today.
High Retention Levels
If you get the giveaway right, then the recipient will keep it. And if you can give away a business gift that will actually save your prospect money then you really will be on to a winner. So consider a giveaway such as promotional pens (always handy), promotional mugs (never enough in the coffee cupboard) and promotional umbrellas (never going to get thrown away).
Message Longevity
No-one can suggest that a promotional item can compare with a TV advert. But what they lack in glamour they more than make up for in longevity. TV adverts are of course the most expensive form of advertising and whilst they may create a dramatic impact the majority are soon forgotten. The beauty of the promotional item is the message is retained, far beyond any cost benefit analysis threshold. Just ask yourself when was the last time you through a promotional baseball cap away|
More Useful Than an Advert
From promotional ice scrapers and promotional torches through to branded mobile phone holders and printed folders, most promotional items are useful in one way or another. As a result of this usefulness they will be retained...along with your brand and message.
Client Loyalty
Promotional merchandise is not just nicety. It can have a massive impact on your customers’ perception of you and your company. So next time they have a choice to make between suppliers, it could just be the factor that swings that order to you rather than the competition. And all because of that element of promotional merchandise that you gave away as a freebie!
To see a comprehensive range of the opportunities available to your business through promotional merchandise, simply visit www.codepromotional.co.uk today.
Frequently asked questions regarding promotional merchandise.
Sometimes the promotional merchandise industry becomes wrapped up in itself with regards to assumptions about the levels of understanding of the end user. Jargon becomes the norm and sometimes we need to step back and ensure our clients really understand what we are talking about.
What is origination?
Origination is the set up of the equipment for the job; to produce the screen in the screen printing process or to produce the disk for embroidery, it is an industry standard charge.
How should I provide artwork?
Suppliers can accept artwork in a majority of formats including EPS, PDF, Coral, Quark and Illustrator. However, if you do not have artwork, very often they will be able to advise and produce print ready artwork to your requirements, at minimal cost.
How accurately will my colours be reproduced?
There will always be endeavour to match the colours as accurately as possible. However print colours and shades will vary depending on the material, surface and texture being utilised.
What types of branding are available?
Screen printing: Used on pens, flat plastic items and PU, as well as clothing, particularly T-shirts. Ink is applied to the product by pushing it through a stencil (screen) containing your design.
Tampo (or Pad) Printing: An ink applying method, but used to especially good effect on odd or curved shapes. An increasing popular method due to the flexibility and number of products it can mark. Ink is transferred onto product by way of a rubber pad.
Engraving: Used most commonly on crystal, glass and metal products to achieve a quality, lasting finish. Laser engraving is now widely regarded as the most accurate and economical way of reproducing fine design work, although machine engraving may still be used to excellent effect.
Blocking: Used to brand leather goods in particular. A metal block (die) is pressure stamped onto the product, usually with a gold or silver foil, to leave a lasting impression of your design. Alternatively, the process can be performed without foil, just leaving your design in plain relief. This is known as Blind Embossing.
Embroidery: This is a great way to achieve quality personalisation on most clothing and headwear. The modern machinery offering speed and multiple colour possibilities, more customers are selecting this method of personalisation to great effect. A typical design is based on a stitch count of around 5 to 10,000 stitches.
Die Stamping: Usually used on metal products like stainless steel or similar products. Like blocking, metal die is pressure stamped onto your product leaving an impression of your design. It can be left plain or filled with colour.
So, as ever, our advice at Code Promotional Merchandise is to never assume the level of knowledge of your customer and always ensure that there adequate explanation of the process when you quote. That way, there will be no hidden surprises for you or your customer!
About The Author
Ian Feingold is a Director of Code Promotional Merchandise, an online supplier of promotional products and business gifts to businesses, charities and public sector organisations with products including promotional pens, promotional mugs, promotional umbrellas, promotional desk top items and eco friendly promotional giveaways.
What is origination?
Origination is the set up of the equipment for the job; to produce the screen in the screen printing process or to produce the disk for embroidery, it is an industry standard charge.
How should I provide artwork?
Suppliers can accept artwork in a majority of formats including EPS, PDF, Coral, Quark and Illustrator. However, if you do not have artwork, very often they will be able to advise and produce print ready artwork to your requirements, at minimal cost.
How accurately will my colours be reproduced?
There will always be endeavour to match the colours as accurately as possible. However print colours and shades will vary depending on the material, surface and texture being utilised.
What types of branding are available?
Screen printing: Used on pens, flat plastic items and PU, as well as clothing, particularly T-shirts. Ink is applied to the product by pushing it through a stencil (screen) containing your design.
Tampo (or Pad) Printing: An ink applying method, but used to especially good effect on odd or curved shapes. An increasing popular method due to the flexibility and number of products it can mark. Ink is transferred onto product by way of a rubber pad.
Engraving: Used most commonly on crystal, glass and metal products to achieve a quality, lasting finish. Laser engraving is now widely regarded as the most accurate and economical way of reproducing fine design work, although machine engraving may still be used to excellent effect.
Blocking: Used to brand leather goods in particular. A metal block (die) is pressure stamped onto the product, usually with a gold or silver foil, to leave a lasting impression of your design. Alternatively, the process can be performed without foil, just leaving your design in plain relief. This is known as Blind Embossing.
Embroidery: This is a great way to achieve quality personalisation on most clothing and headwear. The modern machinery offering speed and multiple colour possibilities, more customers are selecting this method of personalisation to great effect. A typical design is based on a stitch count of around 5 to 10,000 stitches.
Die Stamping: Usually used on metal products like stainless steel or similar products. Like blocking, metal die is pressure stamped onto your product leaving an impression of your design. It can be left plain or filled with colour.
So, as ever, our advice at Code Promotional Merchandise is to never assume the level of knowledge of your customer and always ensure that there adequate explanation of the process when you quote. That way, there will be no hidden surprises for you or your customer!
About The Author
Ian Feingold is a Director of Code Promotional Merchandise, an online supplier of promotional products and business gifts to businesses, charities and public sector organisations with products including promotional pens, promotional mugs, promotional umbrellas, promotional desk top items and eco friendly promotional giveaways.
The budget versatility of promotional products
As any marketing manager, brand manager, sales director of MD will tell you, a key part of any outlay on marketing is getting the best value for your money. And that is precisely why many companies consider promotional merchandise to be a vital part of their marketing mix.
Consider any of the main product groups of promotional products and business gifts and you will see the versatility it can play on budgets. The promotional pen for example. The most obvious first step is to decide on the lower specification plastic pen or the more visually impactful metal pen. Plastic pens have an immense price range to work within - consider a Panther Eco pen for less than 18p or go for a Prodir closer to 30p each. So you as the company must make a call on cheap giveaway or longevity of use.
For metal pens, generally the prices start from around 85p or so and of course can go as high as £3-4 and higher. Traditionally, the higher end pricing tends to reflect a brand name e.g. Papermate, Waterman, Parker etc, normally in some form of set and presentation box.
New onto the marketplace (and adding a further dimension to the area) is the rollerball pen...more expensive than the ballpen but generally accepted to be a better writing instrument with greater longevity.
But it’s not just writing products that demonstrate the budget versatility of promotional merchandise.
Drinkware is also an opportunity. Mugs have always been a popular as they have longevity of use...after all, when was the last time you through a mug out! So consider the budget flexibility of ceramic mugs versus plastic mugs. And then through in China mugs too! And surprisingly, the range of ceramic mugs keeps the pricing structure both attractive and affordable for most businesses.
Budget adherence (and juggling) is a fundamental part of business. So when looking into brand awareness, exhibition support or new product launches, promotional merchandise offers a vast array of opportunities to ensure budgets are spent wisely.
About The Author
Ian Feingold is a Director of Code Promotional Merchandise, an online supplier of promotional products and business gifts to businesses, charities and public sector organisations with products including promotional pens, promotional mugs, promotional umbrellas, promotional desk top items and eco friendly promotional giveaways.
Consider any of the main product groups of promotional products and business gifts and you will see the versatility it can play on budgets. The promotional pen for example. The most obvious first step is to decide on the lower specification plastic pen or the more visually impactful metal pen. Plastic pens have an immense price range to work within - consider a Panther Eco pen for less than 18p or go for a Prodir closer to 30p each. So you as the company must make a call on cheap giveaway or longevity of use.
For metal pens, generally the prices start from around 85p or so and of course can go as high as £3-4 and higher. Traditionally, the higher end pricing tends to reflect a brand name e.g. Papermate, Waterman, Parker etc, normally in some form of set and presentation box.
New onto the marketplace (and adding a further dimension to the area) is the rollerball pen...more expensive than the ballpen but generally accepted to be a better writing instrument with greater longevity.
But it’s not just writing products that demonstrate the budget versatility of promotional merchandise.
Drinkware is also an opportunity. Mugs have always been a popular as they have longevity of use...after all, when was the last time you through a mug out! So consider the budget flexibility of ceramic mugs versus plastic mugs. And then through in China mugs too! And surprisingly, the range of ceramic mugs keeps the pricing structure both attractive and affordable for most businesses.
Budget adherence (and juggling) is a fundamental part of business. So when looking into brand awareness, exhibition support or new product launches, promotional merchandise offers a vast array of opportunities to ensure budgets are spent wisely.
About The Author
Ian Feingold is a Director of Code Promotional Merchandise, an online supplier of promotional products and business gifts to businesses, charities and public sector organisations with products including promotional pens, promotional mugs, promotional umbrellas, promotional desk top items and eco friendly promotional giveaways.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)