Which Promotional Products Are Best?
For any brand or business, standing out against the competition and leaving a lasting impression is essential.
Promotional products, also known as branded merchandise, are a great way to achieve this. By gifting these items, you can increase brand visibility, generate buzz, and drive customer loyalty.
In this guide, we look at what promotional products are, our pick of the 10 best promotional products to get your brand seen, and the importance of getting it right.
Let’s get started.
What are Promotional Products?
Promotional products are tangible items that feature your company’s logo, slogan, or message. They’re distributed to customers, employees, or potential clients to raise brand awareness and reinforce brand identity.
Read our guide on what is branded merchandise to find out more.

At Image Box Design, we offer a range of promotional merchandise and popular promotional products for any marketing campaign. Whether you’re looking for corporate gifts or custom pens, we can help. Get in touch today.
10 Best Promotional Products
Choosing the right promotional gifts can make a significant difference in your marketing efforts.
Here are 10 of the best promotional products that consistently deliver results, and why they work, along with tips on how to make the most of them:
1. Pens
Why They Work: Pens are inexpensive, practical, and frequently used, making them a staple in any promotional product lineup.
Tips: Choose a high-quality pen with a sleek design and ensure your logo is prominently displayed. Opt for pens with smooth ink flow and a comfortable grip to enhance user experience.
2. Tote Bags
Why They Work: Tote bags are eco-friendly, reusable, and offer ample space for branding, making them a popular choice among environmentally conscious consumers.
Tips: Opt for durable materials like cotton canvas. Consider adding a unique design or colour to make your promotional bags stand out. Ensure the bags are sturdy enough for repeated use.
3. Drinkware
Why They Work: Drinkware is practical and visible, especially when people are on the go. Items like reusable water bottles and travel mugs are particularly popular.
Tips: Choose items like reusable water bottles, travel mugs, or insulated tumblers. Ensure they are made from high-quality, durable materials to withstand daily use.

4. Tech Accessories
Why They Work: Tech accessories are useful and trendy, appealing to a tech-savvy audience. They are in high demand in today’s digital age.
Tips: Consider items like power banks, phone chargers, or wireless earbuds. Ensure the accessories are compatible with a wide range of devices to maximise their usefulness.
5. Branded Apparel
Why They Work: Branded apparel creates brand awareness and can be worn frequently, acting as a walking billboard for your brand.
Tips: Choose items like t-shirts, hats, or hoodies with a stylish design and your logo. Opt for high-quality fabrics and comfortable fits to ensure the apparel is worn often.
6. Notebooks and Journals
Why They Work: Notebooks and journals are practical for taking notes, journaling, or sketching, making them useful in various settings.
Tips: Choose high-quality paper and a sleek design. Consider adding features like elastic closures, ribbon markers, or pocket sleeves to enhance usability.
7. Stress Relief Items
Why They Work: Stress relief items are useful for relaxation and can be branded with your logo, creating a positive association with your brand.
Tips: Consider items like stress balls, fidget spinners, or aromatherapy diffusers. Ensure the items are made from durable materials and are easy to use.
8. Custom Food Items
Why They Work: Who doesn’t like food? Foodie items are memorable and often delicious, creating a positive association with your brand. They are a unique and engaging way to promote your business.
Tips: Choose food items that align with your brand’s image and target audience. Ensure the packaging is attractive and clearly displays your logo.
9. Branded Experiences
Why They Work: Branded experiences create lasting memories and foster emotional connections with your brand. They offer a unique and immersive way to engage with your audience.
Tips: Organise events, workshops, or exclusive experiences. Ensure the experiences are well-planned and align with your brand’s values and message.
10. Digital Products
Why They Work: Digital products can be easily distributed and accessed digitally, making them a convenient and modern promotional tool.
Tips: Consider items like e-books, templates, or online courses. Ensure the digital products are high-quality and provide valuable content to your audience.
Additional Tips for Brands and Businesses
- Consider your target audience: Tailor your product choices to their interests and preferences.
- Prioritise quality: Invest in well-made products that will last.
- Brand it well: Ensure your logo or branding is clear and prominent.
- Timing is key: Distribute products at relevant events or conferences.
- Track your results: Use analytics to measure the effectiveness of your campaign.

Why are Promotional Products Important to Get Right?
It’s really important to get your branded merchandise right for several reasons:
1. Brand Visibility
The right promotional products can significantly increase your brand’s visibility. Items that are useful and frequently used, like pens and water bottles, keep your brand in front of customers daily.
2. Customer Engagement
Promotional products that resonate with your target audience can foster a deeper connection with your brand. For example, tech accessories are a hit with tech-savvy consumers, while eco-friendly items appeal to environmentally conscious individuals.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
Promotional products are a cost-effective marketing strategy. Compared to other advertising methods, they offer a high return on investment, especially when chosen wisely.
4. Brand Perception
High-quality, well-designed promotional products can enhance your brand’s image. Conversely, poor-quality items can have the opposite effect, so it’s essential to invest in products that reflect your brand’s values.
Looking To Elevate Your Brand With The Best Promotional Products?
If you’re looking to buy some branded merchandise for an upcoming event, exhibition or just to have in general, we can help you choose the right products to execute a successful campaign.
Whether you need pens, cups, clothing or tech items, take a look through our product catalogue or contact us with your requirements.
Looking for a quote, or more information? Get in touch with our experts today and we’ll be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Most Effective Promotional Item?
Promotional pens are incredibly effective due to their practicality and regular use, making them excellent giveaways at trade shows. They keep your company logo visible, increasing brand exposure and recognition among potential customers.
What Are The Benefits of Promotional Products?
Promotional products offer numerous benefits, including increased brand awareness and loyalty. Items like cotton tote bags, USB sticks, and beanie hats are practical and popular, enhancing your corporate identity and marketing goals without breaking your marketing budget.
Why Should You Consider Promotional Products?
You should consider promotional products to boost brand recognition and meet your marketing goals effectively. With a range of promotional products like custom merchandise and unique items, you can find excellent giveaways that align with your company events and customer service values, all while getting the best value and most competitive prices.
Why Do Promotional Products Work?
Promotional products work because they keep your brand logo in front of potential and loyal customers regularly. Whether it’s plastic pens, metal pens, or fridge magnets, these items offer continuous brand exposure, fostering brand loyalty and recognition, and making them excellent giveaways at trade shows and company events, supported by friendly and dedicated account managers for expert service.
Related Guides:
- What is Branded Merchandise?
- Why Branding is Important for Your Businesses Success
- What is Brand Identity?
- What is Promotional Merchandise?