Free gifts and giveaways are one of the most enduring tactics used by brands, and it is easy to understand why. No giant leap of faith is required to believe that individuals will think of a business more favorably if they have been given something free.
But how many pens does one person need? How many USB sticks, journals or note books? The logic may be sound, but has over-use made promotional merchandise nothing more than a cheap gimmick? Or can it really bring in new business? Research carried out by the BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association) suggests that it can, the survey found that:
- 56 per cent of respondents felt more favorable towards a brand after receiving a promotional item.
- 79 per cent said it would make them more likely to do business with the brand in future.
The survey also asked how many promotional products do you have on your desk, over half answered they have 3 or more items on their desk, the most popular being:
- Mugs
- Calendars
- Pens
It would appear that Promotional Merchandise is still very high in the marketing mix and indeed an essential at any exhibition, conference or simply to keep your brand in front of your clients.