How to Use Promotional Products Effectively

Promotional products are one of the most widely used methods for getting the name of a business out into the marketplace. In fact, one study found that over half (50.5%) of people who receive promotional items remember the brand even after six months (BPMA).

In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of promo products, how to choose the right ones, and how to use them effectively to support your brand.

What is a Promotional Product?

Promotional products are branded items — typically featuring your logo, tagline, and contact details — that are given away to raise brand awareness. They can be used to promote your services, reward customers, or build loyalty among employees.

At Custom Planet, we offer a full range of customizable products perfect for growing your business.

Why Are Promotional Products Important?

Promo items are important because they:

  • Boost brand recognition: Keep your name top of mind with customers.

  • Offer prolonged exposure: Useful items stay with recipients much longer than a fleeting advert.

  • Establish an office presence: Products like branded pens and stationery and desk accessories are visible daily in offices.

  • Provide cost-effective marketing: They are cheaper and offer higher ROI compared to TV, radio, or digital ads.

  • Encourage repeat business: Especially when used smartly in industries like healthcare or education.

  • Expand your marketing toolkit: Promo products can open up new avenues beyond traditional advertising.

Why Do Promotional Products Work?

People love getting something for free. A promotional item feels like a reward rather than an advert, creating a positive brand experience.
Research shows that 60% of people feel more positively about a company after receiving branded merchandise (BPMA).

Useful items are valued even more highly — making people more likely to keep, use, and show them off to others.

How to Choose the Right Promotional Products

Think about:

  • Usefulness: Practical gifts like reusable drinkware or pens are more likely to be used.

  • Quality: Durable items reflect well on your brand; cheap items can do more harm than good.

  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly products are vital if sustainability is part of your brand values.

  • Audience relevance: Tailor your choice to who you're targeting (e.g., tech gifts for younger audiences, premium gifts for corporate clients).

Tips for Using Promotional Products

  • Set goals and measure ROI: Track lead generation or repeat orders.

  • Know your audience: Match products to demographics.

  • Use personal connection: Handing over a gift directly has more emotional impact.

  • Appreciate staff too: Internal gifting builds employee loyalty as well as customer trust.

What Are the Best Promotional Products to Give Away?

There are endless options, but some categories consistently perform the best:

Pens and Pencils

Pens and stationery are affordable, highly useful, and easily kept around offices — a great all-round choice for any industry.

Desk Products

Items like promotional coasters, sticky notes, and rulers are practical, keeping your branding on desks year-round.

Drinkware

Mugs and reusable water bottles are kept and used daily, especially in office environments. They also make excellent giveaways at conferences.

Keyrings

Compact, budget-friendly, and functional — branded keyrings are great for mass distribution at events.

Branded Clothing

Custom t-shirts, hoodies, and jackets make great uniform items and giveaways, extending your brand visibility far beyond the event.

Bags and Totes

Custom tote bags and backpacks are particularly effective at trade shows, allowing visitors to carry your logo around the event floor.

Promotional Tech Items

USB drives, power banks, and tech gadgets offer huge perceived value — perfect for impressing business clients or standing out at modern events.

Explore Promotional Products at Custom Planet

Ready to level up your brand?
At Custom Planet, we stock thousands of customizable promotional products — everything from mugs and t-shirts to umbrellas, eco-friendly gifts, and high-end corporate rewards.

Our expert team can help you find the perfect products to match your brand and marketing goals. Get in touch with us today to find out more!

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