Admin

Aug

2009

Forecast: Prepared! Anybody Can Be a Meteorologist with Promotional Weather Instruments…

The 2009 hurricane season is officially underway. I returned yesterday from a brief beach trip to the Florida Panhandle just in time, as tropical storm Claudette picked up speed close behind. The National Hurricane Center stated that no named storms (meaning those with winds reaching a minimum of 39 miles an hour) had appeared in the Atlantic Basin as of Friday- the seventh-longest recorded wait in this area for the first tropical storm of the season. By Saturday, however, Tropical Storms Ana and Bill had been named off the Florida coast, and Claudette developed by early Sunday morning.

Experts predict a quieter than usual storm season this year, which is particularly fortunate for the nation’s Flood Insurance Program, currently in a deficit of over $19 billion. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which controls the National Flood Insurance Program, released a statement that hurricanes have cost greater than $45.9 billion in disaster assistance since 2005, comprising approximately 85% of FEMA’s total expenditure on disaster relief efforts.

It is fascinating to think about the technological advancements that have evolved and the power which they grant meteorologists and weather experts to accurately track climate patterns and predict storms. Our ancestors had no advance warning of looming natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes, and therefore could only prepare for treacherous weather threats as soon as they came into view.

Today, tools to monitor weather conditions are affordable enough to warrant personal use in the home and office! Your brand can even customize handy weather instruments with your logo and marketing message so that clients and employees can utilize them on a daily basis. I, for one, enjoy being able to dress accordingly for the day’s forecast without having to set foot outside my front door! Gifts like weather stations will benefit your desired end users tremendously, allowing them to know what conditions lie outside the confines of their home or office. Choose from a variety of unique custom imprinted Weather Instruments that are sure to impress and amuse your target audience.

If you happen to be in the danger zone for any of the tropical storms or hurricanes I mentioned above, stay safe and make sure to follow the storms’ progress to be prepared for any unexpected changes in course or upgrades in severity! Even if you are not in a region susceptible to these weather phenomena, weather tools can be incorporated into your marketing mix to form the foundation for an innovative and memorable promotional campaign.

Dana
Marketing Coordinator

Aug

2009

Interesting Advertising in Unexpected Places

A few days ago as I was leaving the office for the night, I walked to my car and was surprised to find an imprinted reusable grocery bag hanging from my driver’s side mirror. I can’t lie; at first I was a little startled by the bag. I didn’t see it until I rounded the corner of my car, and I wasn’t expecting anything but the mirror to be there. But once I glanced around the parking lot to see the same white grocery bag hanging from the mirrors of all the other cars, I realized it was an advertisement.

Of course, I wasn’t going to stand outside and read the contents, so I tossed the bag onto my passenger seat and headed home. While I intended to take the bag home and check it out there, curiosity got the best of me on my drive and I ended up reading the entire message printed on that bag at various red lights.

So what’s the moral of my story? Apparently flyers aren’t the only thing people are leaving on cars these days! While I wouldn’t advise that you go hanging bags and other various promotional products on cars in parking lots (I did have mixed feelings about it, and I’m not even all that crazy about my car), I did think it said a lot about marketing in our society.

Savvy marketers are moving away from the disposable and concentrating on making longer lasting advertising impressions. When this company left bags on our cars, they literally put their brand into my hands. I got a new grocery bag and a constant reminder of their business. Not only was I exposed to their message, but they’ll gain even more advertising impressions every time I take their bag to the grocery store.

Again, I’m not saying you should run out and hang bags on the mirrors of the cars in your lot, but unexpected promotional advertising can be an effective means of getting your message out there.

Kim
Marketing Coordinator

Aug

2009

A Promotional Products Company You Can Trust!

I went through a phase my freshmen year of college where I was addicted to the popular online auction and shopping website eBay. I only actually bought a few items using the site, but that was all that was necessary to realize that it could be quite detrimental to my sense of well-being. I think it was after one particular morning – when I spent my entire 10am philosophy class in an anxiety-stricken panic because the auction for the discounted designer bag I had been eying all week would end well before the day’s lecture on Lucretius would, and I happened to currently have the highest bid – that I decided to end the obsession right then and there before my grades began to suffer and I began to count down the hours and minutes of my days in the following manner: 1h 27min left in the auction, 1h 13m left in class, equals 14min to get from Callaway Hall to a computer at the student center to place the winning bid.

Besides the ultimate disappointment in myself that came with the realization that I had fallen victim to such a self-indulgent act, I never really had any problems in relation to the site itself. Today during my lunch break, however, I happened to hear a story from a co-worker (thank you Courtney for unknowingly providing the inspiration for today’s blog!) that made me consider the negative consequences of using such a purchasing outlet. Courtney’s boyfriend had recently sold his used iPhone through eBay. In the description he made sure to disclose that there were scratches on the product and that he could provide additional pictures of the item if requested, but that the iPhone was completely non-refundable after purchased. To make a long story short, the purchaser claimed that there were more scratches than described and requested a refund despite the clear disclosure that the transaction was to be final, resulting in a dispute that has yet to be resolved. Now I am not trying to criticize eBay or the use of other similar online shopping sites, (as I mentioned earlier I never had any transactional problems like this with any of my purchases) but the situation made me think about how reliable and consumer-friendly the processes are for ordering promotional products here at Pinnacle Promotions.

At Pinnacle Promotions, consumers are assigned to dedicated account teams to guide them throughout the entire buying experience. We offer the highest quality promotional products too and stand by our Pinnacle Platinum Guarantee™, ensuring that each order arrives on-time and exactly as it was approved or we will re-run your order or refund your money. You can stick to eBay if you want the thrill of the auction and can accept the consequences of being unsatisfied with your purchase, but if you want to shop with confidence, you can trust Pinnacle Promotions for all of your promotional product and imprinted apparel needs.

Aug

2009

Does Money Make the World of Promotional Products Go Around?

Original Artwork By Jodi Spong, Production Manager/Graphic Designer

They all say “money makes the world go around.” But in the contemplative words of Tim McGraw, “who are they?” Well, I guess the overwhelming majority of society has adopted this mentality, but that does not mean that this statement should be interpreted as law. Children are taught at a young age through the use of allowances to value money and spend it wisely, but too often kids grow up to become jaded and materialistic, losing sight of what is really important in life.

Promotional products can serve as valuable marketing tools to attract business, but they need to be properly integrated into a cohesive marketing mix to return optimal results. Relationship management is a critical aspect of running a company, and you want to take necessary steps to ensure that your brand is perceived positively among current and potential customers. You need not shell out big bucks to impress end users of your promotional products with expensive gifts; sometimes it really is the thought that counts.

In college I took a marketing course entirely based on the concept that the best companies, the ones which make the greatest impact on the world around them and therefore stand the test of time, are those that have a soul. Soulfulness is an admirable quality that comes from within a brand: it is the intrinsic principles and values that guide the company every single day, and it cannot be communicated adequately in a mission statement or companywide memo. Ultimately, every organization needs money in order to remain in existence, but there are many other important factors that must be present to create a strong brand identity.

I am not trying to discourage you from investing in costly customized executive gifts or gift baskets. These items promote your brand’s professionalism and appreciation for valued clientele. However, you can achieve comparable success by employing less expensive promotional products and coupling them with articulate, compelling imprint messages or underlying marketing sentiments.

One of my favorite examples of inexpensive, yet highly effective, marketing with promotional products is LiveStrong bracelets. These cheap bracelets started a movement across the country in support of the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Consumers can buy their own custom imprinted bracelets, featuring the word “LiveStrong,” to publicize their support for the charitable cause, while also helping fundraising efforts for the foundation.

The popularity of LiveStrong bracelets demonstrates how simple it is to use promotional products for good, and the potential benefits that can be reaped by associating your brand with meaningful causes. Show the public that your company has a soul by distributing items like EarthSmart™ pens and jotters with your logo. You can also give these products out in your office or workplace to set a precedent for environmentally conscious actions.

Another way to get the word out about your company’s unique culture is by customizing inexpensive promotional products with phrases (not slogans!) that your employees live by every day. Some examples may be “Do good to do well” for a bank or financial institution, or “Mindful matters” for an educational foundation or think tank. Any way that you can think of to illustrate your company’s mantras in a genuine way to your target audience can boost brand loyalty and recognition. Check out our Sales and Closeouts category to take advantage of our current deals.

The answer to the question posed in the title of this blog post is yet to be determined. Look within your company or organization to reach your own conclusion, as every business operates differently and has its own set of objectives. Whether you decide to shell out big bucks or just small change, I wish you the best of luck with whatever direction you choose to take with your promotional products purchases!

Aug

2009

Promotional Products to Fit Your Brand to a “Tee”!

Ahhh the feel of the short blades of the green, the momentum of the swing of the club and the satisfaction you get when you sink the ball in the hole…well, for me, its more like the momentum of the golf cart as it speeds down the cart path and the satisfaction I get when I swing the club and it actually makes contact with the ball. But what girl wouldn’t like a game where the men are required to wear slacks and a collared shirt while following etiquette guidelines and skillfully swinging a big club?! What game am I talking about? That’s right – the game of golf, of course! And the month of August just happens to be National Golf Month!

Now I’m not sure about the origins of National Golf Month, but the origins of the game of golf can be traced back to the 15th century off the eastern coast of Scotland. Players would hit a pebble instead of a ball around the sand dunes using a stick or primitive sort of club. Today, golf has developed into a very civilized game with sophisticated equipment such as the dimpled golf ball and portable golf tees. And while golf most likely began as a sport of leisure, today the golf course is considered a venue for business. Many companies take advantage of the relaxed and fun environment while they do some serious negotiating. If you plan on using this strategy, remember to come prepared with promotional golf merchandise customized with your company name and logo. Offer your golfing partner promotional gifts such as imprinted golf balls or even an engraved metal ball marker before you tee off!

Jaime
Creative Writing Intern

Aug

2009

“Saved by the Bell”: The Pinnacle Years (Continued)

And now for Part Two of Friday’s blog tribute to “Saved by the Bell”… What better way to discuss promotional products than by relating them to a television series that impacted so many lives throughout its time on the air?

Kelly: Kelly Kapowski’s peppy personality, natural beauty, and adoration for her large family quickly made her America’s Sweetheart. When her father lost his job, she insisted on giving back the money he had given her to buy her dream prom dress to help with family expenses. For employees or clients who, like Kelly, possess the admirable qualities of selflessness and generosity, why not encourage them to pamper themselves for once, instead of only looking out for the well-being of others? Products featured in our “Pamper Yourself (Spa)” category can provide valued customers and staff with the necessary tools to relax and treat themselves to some “me” time.

Lisa: Lisa Turtle was always sassy, strong-willed, and most of all, stylish! For fashionistas like Lisa, our selection of Fashion Totes or Women’s Apparel will help them set the trends, as well as promoting your brand as hip and cutting-edge. In multiple episodes, Lisa’s friends often walked into her bedroom unannounced to find her doing aerobics along with a videotape. The popularity of Aerobics is undeniable, and items related to the fitness craze are great options to promote healthy exercise habits. Some of the newest (and in my opinion, coolest!) workout accessories to hit the market are balance boards. These pieces of equipment challenge the user’s coordination, core strength, and flexibility. And now, you can customize them with your brand logo and marketing message! Both men and women can utilize this innovative fitness tool, as it can definitely spice up an otherwise repetitive workout regimen.

Jessie: Jessie Spano’s determination, intellect, and competitive nature were admirable qualities that made her successful in any endeavor she undertook at Bayside. Whether she was advocating for women’s rights by criticizing Slater’s chauvinistic ways or attending protests related to preserving the environment, Jessie certainly spoke up for what she believed in. If you are looking for promotional gifts to please recipients dedicated to protecting the environment, consider items from our EarthSmart™ category. These selections are made from recycled materials, recyclable, and/or help conserve energy. In addition, Pinnacle donates a portion of the proceeds from sales of these items to 1% for the Planet so that the money can be put to good use by non-profit environmental groups. If the audience you intend to target with your promotional products is associated with philanthropic organizations, take a look at our Non-Profit/Associations category to find the perfect gifts or giveaways.

I hope you enjoyed these blast-from-the-past blog posts inspired by one of TV’s most memorable sitcoms as much as I enjoyed writing them! Next time you purchase promotional products, draw from the world around you (including the fictional world housed in your television screen!) for ideas, and take the characteristics of your intended recipient(s) into account when selecting ideal custom imprinted gifts.

Dana
Marketing Coordinator

Aug

2009

“Saved by the Bell”: The Pinnacle Years

While going about my morning routine before work, I typically roll out of bed, grab breakfast from the kitchen, and switch on the TV to get my daily dose of “Saved by the Bell.” Growing up, 5:05-5:35 PM was a very important time of day, dedicated exclusively to watching SBTB. Starting my workdays with Zack Morris, A.C. Slater, and the rest of the Bayside posse has inspired me to write a SBTB-themed blog entry about a few of the fictional characters, which real-life market segments they most resemble, and suggestions for promotional products that would best fit with their hobbies and interests.

Zack Morris: I think “Preppy” would most appreciate items that would enhance his fun-loving, laidback California attitude. Promotional Beach Items like coolers, sunscreen, and sports balls are great options, but Zack’s social butterfly persona could also make use of networking tools like business card cases or daily planners. His entrepreneurial spirit often landed him in trouble with authority, such as when he attempted to sell Lisa’s clothes for a profit so she could pay off her credit card debt. When Mr. Belding inquired as to what was going on, Zack accidentally offered to donate Lisa’s clothes to Bayside’s charity clothing drive! The moral of the story is that entrepreneurs, like Zack, who engage in frequent client meetings or are constantly on the road can benefit from promotional products that can help them stay organized on-the-go. Travel Accessories or office accessories may be ideal gifts for associates or customers similar to Zack.

A.C. Slater: Slater’s athleticism, sense of humor, and willingness to take part in his friends’ crazy schemes made him an unforgettable character. Whether your intended recipients are already fitness-conscious or you are trying to encourage them to become more physically active, promotional fitness accessories are the right promotional products for you! Slater would have appreciated any sports-related giveaways to accompany his healthy lifestyle. His love of sports occasionally made him come across to the show’s audience as a “dumb jock,” but in actuality he often displayed a sensitive side, too. In one episode, his touching class presentation about his best friend, his pet lizard Artie, portrayed him as a caring animal-lover. For clients that demonstrate an affinity for four-legged friends, opt for promotional products from our pets category. Your company’s thoughtful, considerate gifts will make a positive impression and show leads or existing clientele that you pay close attention to their needs.

Screech Powers: Where can I even begin to discuss this goofy guy? Screech’s klutzy, awkward presence played a key role in making SBTB a success. One of my favorite episodes was when he was competing in a chess tournament against Valley’s Russian exchange student. For clients who love board games like Chess or Checkers, consider promotional items from our Toys, Games, and Novelities section. They will be able to perfect their strategies, while viewing your company’s name and logo every time they play the game.

Get ready for more “Saved by the Bell” fun in Monday’s blog post, this time with an emphasis on Bayside’s leading ladies. Goooo Tigers!

Aug

2009

Clip It to It!

When searching for the next big thing, sometimes it’s easy to forget about the tried and true.

I’m always on the lookout for new & unique promotional ideas. Fun and funky promos are a great way to pique interest in your company. Whether you choose a trendy cap or a digital photo frame, high-tech and fashionable items are always a hit with recipients. Sometimes, though, you just need a simple reminder of your company. A staple item will give your logo tons of advertising at a low price-point that fits your budget.

I was paying a few bills last night and realized that the most functional, and frequently used, supply on my desk (after my computer, of course) is an ordinary Crocodile Clip that prominently displays the name of my car insurance company. The strong magnet on the back attaches to my metal desk organizer and clips my unpaid bills right where I can see them.

The little promotional clip gets my attention daily, giving my insurance company’s logo tons of exposure. While not everyone will stick the clip on their desk, whether it’s on a fridge, computer, filing cabinet or bag of chips, the logoed clip is going to be used somehow: and it will get exposure.

In addition to the classic Crocodile Clip, there are hundreds of innovative clip designs out there. The brightly colored acrylic Keep-It Clip™ is just one of many options – you can be sure there’s a clip to fit your needs.

Next time you’re looking for a practical giveaway that won’t break the bank, remember tried and true promotional clips and make the most out of a tight budget.

Kim
Marketing Coordinator

Aug

2009

Are You Ready For Some Football?

That time of year is steadily approaching and I can hardly contain my excitement. Of all sports, my favorite is College Football. The sound of the marching bands, the cheering fans, the scents of sweat and grass filling the air; you can’t beat it. I have to say growing up in the Southeast the rivalries are brutal and I don’t know many other parts of the country that take their loyalty as seriously as those fans in the SEC.

Even if you aren’t a hardcore sports fanatic, it is always fun to be in the outdoors supporting student athletes in any venue. I have fond memories of my High School days with the cheerleaders and pep rallies giving us the chance to leave school early and gear up for the main event. I still have promotional products like mini footballs and pom-poms from those rallies.

In the spirit of the upcoming season, we at Pinnacle are gearing up, as well. Not only do we have an extensive product line of team gear, we have some of the coolest rally items, too. From Mini Plastic Footballs to Klicker Pom-Poms, we can get the spirit going. So no matter what sport or event you may be a fan of, we can help you spread the cheer!

Go Vols!

Stephania
Sales and Marketing Production Assistant

Aug

2009

National Night Out and Related Safety Promotional Products

Every year on the first Tuesday in August between the hours of 7pm and 10pm, millions of people in thousands of communities across the United States participate in the National Night Out event to recognize crime and drug prevention. This year marks the 26th annual awareness evening, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored by various companies and organizations in observing communities.

The goals of this event include increasing awareness in crime and drug prevention, garnering support for local programs against criminal activity, fostering cooperation among police and neighborhood watch groups, and alerting criminals that neighborhoods will not tolerate deviants and unlawful activity.

Your company can emphasize the importance of safety to employees and customers throughout the year by giving away promotional products that will ensure their well-being. Automotive emergency kits featuring your imprinted logo are a great way to make recipients aware of your organizations’ concern for their protection, and they will appreciate the provision of such useful (and necessary!) items, courtesy of your brand.

One especially valuable promotional product is the Roadside Emergency Car Kit, which includes a siren and flashing emergency light. Even inside the home, this item has the potential to save lives when used correctly, because of its ability to inform passersby that the user is in need of assistance.

It isn’t too late to take part in this year’s National Night Out- research activities in and around your community and encourage your company to volunteer tonight as a sponsor. At the very least, encourage your neighbors to meet you outside to recognize this unique annual occurrence. Lock all of your front doors, switch on outside lights, and spend a few hours socializing in the fresh air!

Dana
Marketing Coordinator

Admin

Forecast: Prepared! Anybody Can Be a Meteorologist with Promotional Weather Instruments…

Interesting Advertising in Unexpected Places

A Promotional Products Company You Can Trust!

Does Money Make the World of Promotional Products Go Around?

Promotional Products to Fit Your Brand to a “Tee”!

“Saved by the Bell”: The Pinnacle Years (Continued)

“Saved by the Bell”: The Pinnacle Years

Clip It to It!

Are You Ready For Some Football?

National Night Out and Related Safety Promotional Products

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