What Products Can Be Transformed Into Promotional Items And Where Can I Purchase Them?

By Johnny Meroneld


Using promotional products as a key part of your marketing mix is beneficial for your business, because not only do they make positive impressions on consumers who see them, but the advertising message they carry is reinforced every time they are used. This assertion is not without merit, as a 2011 UK survey showed that this marketing strategy has a lower cost per impression compared to conventional marketing methodologies like advertising in print, or on radio and television. As opposed to these conventional marketing techniques, using promotional products do not usually demand a lot of money compared to traditional advertising methods, and is thus a good choice for businesses with lean marketing budgets.



What Products Can Be Transformed Into Promotional Products?

Almost anything can be branded with a company's name or logo and used for promotion. One of the key findings in the research mentioned above is that consumers are more likely to accept and retain possession of promotional goods like small electronics, USB drives, garments, and household items.

Their added functionality aside from being mere carriers of advertising message is one of the main reasons why they are popular among consumers, and why they are highly effective marketing tools. This is because the more the item is being used, the more frequently the message is reiterated, and the more likely the consumer will recall the brand or consider the company when he or she requires a particular good or service. Aside from usefulness, creativity is also an important factor that contributes to the efficacy of a particular promotional item. Printed koozies are an example of promotional goods that have a low cost per impression but give substantial returns to your investment. If you are not familiar with them, custom koozies are actually beverage sleeves made from fabric or neoprene which serve as insulation to keep the canned or bottled beverage cold, and your hand warm.

Where Can I Order Promotional Products?

Companies do not usually get these products directly from their manufacturers. In most cases, they order these products from a promotional merchandise distributor. These distributors offer their customers with a total outsourcing solution, from making original artwork and subsequent proofing, progress chasing, as well as shipping.

You can go online to find distributors in your area. Companies in the same sector as yours, or those you know have utilized the promotional goods you intend to order can also provide valuable referrals. If you don't know of people who can give you recommendations, you can turn to local trade associations as they can provide you valuable information as to the distributors established in your area.

You should compare three or more distributors to find the best deals. Price is only one criterion in selecting a distributor. The more important consideration would be the quality of their products. Obtain references, too, so you can call their previous clients to ask questions about the promptness of the distributor's service, the professionalism of their staff, and the durability of their products.




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