As a small business owner, you need to use the right marketing strategies to attract prospects and convince them to buy your products or services.
Branded merchandise is one of the easiest and most effective ways to achieve this.
It will put your company on the map and drive sales.
However, you need to choose the right promotional products and stay within budget.
So, check out our list of 35 cost-effective merchandise ideas for small businesses.
Table of Contents
What Are the Benefits of Branded Merchandise for Small Businesses?
How to Choose the Best Small Business Promotional Items
What Are the Benefits of Branded Merchandise for Small Businesses?
Before we go any further, we want to help you understand what makes branded merchandise such an outstanding marketing strategy.
Check out some of its magnificent benefits:
- Increased brand awareness. You can offer promotional products personalized with your company logo or name to introduce your brand to prospects.
Likewise, you can offer them as client gifts.
Either way, once those consumers start wearing or using your promo items, they generate brand exposure and awareness.
In fact, according to a BPMA report, consumers who receive premium branded merch can increase brand awareness by over 96%.
- Cost-effective marketing. You’re probably familiar with the saying that custom t-shirts turn users into walking billboards.
We’re here to tell you this applies to all branded merchandise, especially since 54% of consumers say they regularly use promo products.
But what we love most about this marketing strategy is that, apart from the initial production costs, it’s completely FREE and LONG-LASTING! ?
According to an ASI report, 45% of baby boomers have kept certain promo items for more than 10 years.
- Positive brand identity. Consumers don’t know much about small businesses, which is why you need to make a good first impression.
For instance, high-quality trade show giveaways show consumers your business is committed to quality and customer satisfaction.
In fact, according to a PPAI survey, 70% of consumers equate the quality of the promo product they receive with the reputation of the company that gave it to them.
- Increased customer loyalty. Offering client gifts shows customers you truly value them, which builds strong relationships and brand loyalty.
According to the 2023 State of Corporate Gifting Report, 42% of businesses use corporate gifts to nurture client relationships
- Boosted sales. Brand loyalty has the added benefit of encouraging repeat business and client referrals, which boost sales.
According to the Loyalty Big Picture report, as cited by Business Wire, 60% of companies reported that loyalty program members spend two to three times more annually than non-members.
Now, let us inspire you with some effective small business promotional items.
Apparel
Branded apparel is probably the most popular promotional merchandise worldwide.
This shouldn’t come as a surprise given that apparel is practical, ranges from low cost to premium, is highly customizable, and is very visible.
Check out some of our best-selling branded products in this category:
1. T-shirt
T-shirts will never go out of style, are budget-friendly, and can easily be customized with your brand’s message or company logo.
All this makes them extremely powerful marketing tools for small businesses.
We recommend you opt for the Canyon short sleeve tee, due to its cozy, tri-blend fabric and UV protection.
Why we recommend it: According to an ASI report, T-shirts generate 5,053 impressions over their lifetime.
2. Polo shirt
While t-shirts are great promotional items, polo shirts are even better due to their higher quality.
Our clients usually go with the Otis polo shirt, which has a breathable, matte finish fabric with moisture-wicking properties.
Why we recommend it: According to the ASI report, 62% of U.S. consumers would keep and wear a promo polo shirt for 1 year or longer.
3. Hoodie
Custom hoodies are another timeless piece of clothing you can’t go wrong with.
Our Cypress hoodie is made from super-soft fleece and features an interior phone pocket and a headphone cord port.
Why we recommend it: The hoodie comes in ten eye-catching colors you can match to your branding colors.
4. Jacket
Many small companies avoid branded jackets because they are too pricey.
However, that’s not the case with our Toba jacket.
It has a water-repellent finish and a roll-away hood for rainy days.
When you’re not using it, you can stow it away into its lower left pocket and carry it in your bag.
Why we recommend it: According to the ASI report, outerwear is the most influential promo product for men and women in the US.
5. Vest
Vests are very practical promotional gifts, particularly during chilly autumn days.
The Mercer vest is made from 100% polyester faux down insulation and has an interior storm flap and a water-repellent finish to keep you warm and dry.
Why we recommend it: The trendy design makes this vest suitable for going to the office, jogging, and hiking.
Drinkware
According to the ASI report, 63% of U.S. consumers would keep and use promo drinkware for 1 year or longer.
Moreover, this type of company swag is quite affordable, making it a popular choice among small businesses.
Here are some of our clients’ favorites:
6. Coffee mug
Did you know that nearly 3 in 4 Americans drink coffee every day?
Therefore, coffee mugs are practical corporate gifts that your recipients will appreciate.
We suggest you opt for the Angus custom mug, which has a unique shape that makes it stand out.
Why we recommend it: According to a Vistaprint survey, 31% of consumers want to receive mugs as promotional items.
7. Tumbler
With our Hugo tumbler, your recipients will enjoy their favorite beverages for hours, no matter where they are.
It has a double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation that keeps beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for 8 hours.
Why we recommend it: Custom tumblers allow clients to enjoy their coffee or tea while commuting or running errands.
8. Water bottle
Our clients often pick water bottles as promotional gifts because they promote sustainability by reducing plastic bottle waste.
This eco-friendly promotional water bottle features insulation for maintaining the desired temperature of your beverages, a spill-resistant lid, and a durable hand loop.
Why we recommend it: Besides being eco-friendly, water bottles also encourage users to stay hydrated, making them healthcare promotional items.
9. Collapsible water bottle
If you want to leave a lasting impression on potential customers, opt for a one-of-a-kind item like this collapsible water bottle.
Prospects can take it wherever they go as it can fit even in a small purse.
Why we recommend it: The silicone water bottle has a colorful design that will grab everyone’s attention.
Writing Instruments
If you’re concerned that writing instruments might be outdated, don’t be because they’re not.
According to the Vistaprint survey, 38% of consumers would like to receive pens as promo items.
Still, make sure you pick high-quality writing instruments like the ones we’ve selected.
10. Pen
People use branded pens daily to jot things down or sign important documents.
Therefore, they are very practical and visible promotional items.
Our Maven pen is an excellent choice due to its rubberized barrel that provides a soft, comfortable grip.
Why we recommend it: You can customize pens with your company name and brand logo to make them memorable.
11. Pencil
You’re probably wondering: Do people still use pencils?
Not that much, but we’re sure you’ll still impress them with this eco-friendly pencil set.
These pencils are completely tree-free, as they are made from 100% pure graphite.
Why we recommend it: The ASI report found that 46% of U.S. consumers say they would have a better opinion about a brand that gave them an eco-friendly promotional item.
12. Stylus
Add a modern touch to your giveaways by choosing a stylus instead of a pen.
The Carson stylus has a stylish and sophisticated look and doubles as a soft rubber touchscreen stylus.
Why we recommend it: This high-quality gift shows your brand values its customers and is committed to quality.
13. Notebook
To enhance your recipients’ writing experience, pair any of the other writing instruments with a branded notebook.
Go the extra mile with this eco-friendly notebook that features a recycled PET hardcover and recycled lined paper.
Why we recommend it: According to The World Counts, recycling one tonne of paper saves around 1,400 liters of oil, 26,500 liters of water, and 17 trees.
14. Padfolio
Padfolios help professionals stay organized when attending business meetings.
Our DuraHyde padfolio has a zippered closure and lots of inside slots for business cards, IDs, and paperwork.
Why we recommend it: This cool office supply also includes a notepad that users can later refill.
Bags
Your customers can use swag bags at the office, gym, and traveling.
Moreover, they are stylish and high-quality, which means customers will use them for a long time.
In fact, according to the ASI report, 43% of U.S. consumers would keep and use a promo bag for 2 years or longer.
Take a look at our selection of custom bags:
15. Backpack
Branded backpacks are beloved promotional merchandise allowing users to carry all their essentials wherever they go.
Our backpack’s classic design, roomy main compartment, and laptop sleeve make it perfect for any business setting.
Why we recommend it: Backpacks are also practical travel promotional items for business trips and weekend getaways.
16. Drawstring bag
A drawstring bag is a good choice if you’re looking for a lighter alternative to a backpack.
The trendy graphite color of this bag can complement a business casual and sporty look.
Why we recommend it: This drawstring bag promotes sustainability as it’s made from recycled water bottles.
17. Tote bag
Tote bags are one of our favorite eco-friendly promotional items because they are reusable and can be used at the office or while shopping.
This tote bag is even more special as it’s manufactured from pre-consumer waste generated by factories during the fabric-cutting process.
Why we recommend it: You can turn a tote bag into a swag bag full of goodies at corporate events.
18. Fanny pack
Fanny packs have become very trendy fashion accessories in recent years.
Our clients often go for this cool fanny pack that comes in two colors and features a spacious zippered main compartment.
Why we recommend it: Fanny packs can be used as summer promotional items as consumers can take them to festivals and show off your brand logo and company name.
19. Duffel bag
Duffel bags are the ultimate travel promotional product because they’ll hold everything you need for a short trip.
Just take a look at our Weekender duffel that features:
- A roomy zippered main compartment
- A zippered front media pocket with earbud port
- A front mesh pocket
- A front pouch with an adjustable drawstring
Why we recommend it: Your customers can also use this duffel bag at the gym. Our product even comes with a squeeze-top water bottle.
Tech Items
We use gadgets and tech accessories at home and at work because they are awesome.
For instance, mobile phones have become indispensable. You can use them to keep track of business meetings while staying connected with friends via social media.
Of course, smartphones are too expensive for small businesses to offer as giveaways.
However, you can opt for one of our budget-friendly tech swag items instead.
20. Wireless charging pad
Your gift recipients will no longer worry about forgetting their mobile phone chargers when they head to work.
They can simply keep this wireless charging pad at the office and charge their smartphone while they work.
Why we recommend it: It’s compact so that it won’t occupy too much desk space, and it works even with the phone case on.
21. Bluetooth headphones
We all enjoy listening to music to relax or stay active.
Our clients particularly like these Bluetooth headphones because of their soft ear cups, which guarantee all-day comfort, and their hands-free operation.
Why we recommend them: Research shows that employees who listen to music while working perform better than those who work without music.
22. Bluetooth speaker
While headphones are great for listening to music privately, a Bluetooth speaker allows users to share the joy with others.
The best feature of our Blackwater speaker is its IPX6 waterproof rating which makes it perfect for the outdoors.
Why we recommend it: Potential customers will fondly remember your brand whenever they use this giveaway while hosting backyard parties.
23. USB drive
You might consider them old-fashioned, but USB drives are still trendy company swag items.
With 8GB of storage space, this USB drive allows users to keep all their important work documents with them at all times.
Why we recommend it: The ASI report found that 31% of U.S. consumers who receive a USB drive are more likely to do business with the brand that gave it to them.
Home Office
With more and more people working remotely, you can be sure potential customers will appreciate receiving home office accessories.
In fact, you can even put together affordable work-at-home kits, including mouse pads, sticky notes, writing instruments, and other office supplies.
However, to make a lasting impression, we recommend the following unique promotional products.
24. Laptop desk
Not every home has enough room to accommodate a home office.
Therefore, a laptop desk can be handy as you can position it anywhere.
The Auden desk even features a soft dual-bolster cushion bottom that allows you to comfortably rest your laptop on your lap.
Why we recommend it: This desk also includes a built-in phone slot to participate in virtual meetings while you work.
25. Desk lamp
Improvised home offices can lack sufficient light, so a desk lamp is indispensable.
Our lamp has a modern, sleek, lightweight design that will effortlessly fit on a table or desk and fold away into a drawer.
Why we recommend it: Your recipients can adjust the light intensity using the dimmer switch to create the right ambiance.
26. Desk clock
It can be easy to lose track of time while working from home, so a desk clock is a thoughtful corporate gift.
However, this is no ordinary clock, as it also features a charging pad for various devices.
Why we recommend it: The sleek, silver design of this clock will make any desk look modern and professional.
27. Desk organizer
With the Easton desk organizer set, which includes a document tray, a pencil cup, and an accessory tray, your recipients can forget about messy desks.
Our clients also rave about the set’s classy design which is due to the smooth simulated leather.
Why we recommend it: According to a Brother survey, 41% of professionals believe a tidy workspace increases productivity.
Accessories
Based on our clients’ feedback, we can safely say that accessories are one of the most beloved branded merchandise categories.
The reason is simple: accessories are low-cost, practical, and eye-catching.
Here are some of our clients’ top choices.
28. Baseball cap
Baseball caps protect your clients from the sun and show you care for their well-being.
Our unisex Transcend baseball cap has a simple design that will go well with any sporty outfit.
Why we recommend it: You can choose from twelve vibrant colors to match the custom hat with your branding colors.
29. Beanie
While baseball caps are great summer promo items, you should go for beanies during winter.
Our unisex beanie has a double-layer design that offers a comfortable fit and will keep your potential customers warm during chilly days.
Why we recommend it: This beanie comes in seven different colors, and you can customize it with your brand logo for maximum exposure.
30. Keychain
Opt for a one-of-a-kind keychain, and you can be sure customers will use it.
Our clients often pick this bottle-opener keychain because it’s the perfect party accessory.
Why we recommend it: This might be a mini promo item, but its practicality makes it a very effective corporate gift.
Food, Snacks, and Candy
Promotional candy, snacks, and food are merch ideas suitable for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a promotional Christmas gift or an event giveaway, gourmet products are lifesavers.
Check out some of our yummiest promotional products:
31. Cookie gift set
Dipping cookies in your morning coffee or tea is a delightful way to start your day.
Our gift set includes three delicious oatmeal cookies and a ceramic mug to help users enjoy the full experience.
Why we recommend it: To make this gift memorable, you can customize the mug and the accompanying pouch with your company name.
32. Jam gift set
Another way to brighten up your potential customers’ morning is by sweetening their breakfast with some delicious jam.
The Stonewall Kitchen wild Maine blueberry jam comes in a beautiful seasonal gift box and a customizable pouch.
Why we recommend it: Your recipients can enjoy this gift together with their family, which will help them remember your brand fondly.
33. DIY baking mix
If you’re worried your customers might not have a sweet tooth, this DIY soft pretzel baking mix is an excellent alternative.
The set includes all the ingredients to bake a dozen deliciously salty pretzels at home.
Why we recommend it: DIY gifts put your customers to work (so to speak) and help them create pleasant memories that will strengthen your bond.
34. Popcorn gift set
Cozying up on the sofa with a bowl of popcorn and a good movie is a great way to unwind.
Our gift set includes a reusable large bowl with a lid, a popcorn package, and kettle corn and cheezy cheddar spices.
Why we recommend it: This snack gift shows thoughtfulness by encouraging users to take a break from daily stress and watch a movie.
35. Gourmet cooler
Instead of the old-school corporate gift basket, opt for something modern, like this gourmet cooler.
This gift set includes a wide variety of sweet and salty treats to accommodate every taste.
Why we recommend it: Your customers can reuse the cooler bag to bring their lunch to work or go on picnics.
Now, before we go, we want to give you some tips on how to choose the right merchandise.
How to Choose the Best Small Business Promotional Items
If you want to make the most of the promotional products marketing strategy, you need to pick the right giveaways.
Check out our clients’ practical tips:
- Understand your target audience. Before you pick branded merchandise, you need to establish who your audience is.
Knowing everything from their age and occupation to their interests will help you choose promo items that appeal to them.
- Align the merchandise with your brand. Think about your brand’s message and values and pick products that match them.
For instance, if your company has taken a stand in support of sustainability, eco-friendly giveaways are the way to go.
- Prioritize practicality. Always select company swag that your recipients will use regularly.
These branded items will remind users of your brand every time they use them.
- Focus on quality. Never compromise on quality because poor-quality products can damage your brand’s reputation.
As we mentioned earlier, 70% of consumers judge the reputation of a brand by the quality of the promo products it offers.
- Stay within your budget. As a small business, you can’t afford to overspend on high-end merchandise.
But as you’ve seen, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from.
In addition, you should consider bulk orders that often come with discounts.
Now, let’s wrap this up.
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Over To You!
With all these merchandise ideas for small businesses, it’s impossible not to find something that matches your brand and target audience.
All these promotional products are high-quality and practical so we guarantee your recipients will love and use them.
For more company swag inspiration, browse our SwagDrop shop.
