Are Promotional Products Worth The Money?
Posted on 06. Nov, 2012 by Iqcguest in Featured
Promotional items are a tried and tested way to win business, but who was it that had the brainwave that spending money to give stuff away would be one of the best ways to win new business? It doesn’t seem intuitive, yet time and time again it yields results.
Starting in 1789 with free badges to celebrate the inauguration of George Washington, promotional products, “novelty and specialty goods” as they were known, are a tradition that have reached our shores from America. The first promotional items were used by newspapers (who had access to the printing presses needed to brand the items- makes sense) to increase the circulation of their papers. The giveaways were basic items that people needed like blankets, bags, calendars and aprons. From there, the product range has grown and grown, to include real novelties like nodding dogs and stress balls. There is something for every niche nowadays and something for every budget too.
When used creatively, promotional gifts do more than simply promote or advertise, sure they can improve your sales figures, but they can also raise staff morale and encourage staff satisfaction and retention. They can be used as a reward- presenting high end items to reward success in the company will inevitably encourage loyalty.
If you get it right and choose products that will be used by your staff or customers in the places that you want to get your brand recognised, you will have been successful at turning them into walking adverts. Concentrate on your demographic, what do they do and where do they do it and the rest will follow.
The old sayings are always the best, look after your customers and they will look after you. Show them that they are appreciated by giving them a small (and useful or novel) gift and they will reward you with greater loyalty than you could otherwise expect. There are many ways that promotional products can be used, and it is up to you to make a decision about your aims and expectations when using them. Whatever you decide upon, you can be sure that they are a sound investment for any business.