I found an older article in the New York Times entitled “The Surprising Power of Promotional Products” in which the author found the promotional letter opener his grandfather had used at his medical practice for many, many years and then carefully stored among his possessions after retiring. The writer was stunned at how the letter opener had stayed with his grandfather for so many years and how it was still a perfectly functional product. There is one line in particular that struck me from the article, “Promotional products are, some say, the oldest form of advertising”.
Advertising is made up of trends and passing fads: billboard ads may be big one year or a flop the next, radio advertising is not lauded as it once was, and, eventually, we all throw away print magazine and papers no matter how artfully crafted the ads were. The right promotional product, given at the correct time, can be spared that fate. It can become the daily tool we go to without second thought, the one that stays snugly at the bottom of our trade show tote long after it’s brethren have been bartered or gifted away.
Consider also items that will be useful in your recipients home. A simple, but fun, corkscrew like the W&P Peak Single Sphere Ice Mold will stand out among other bar accessories and become a fast favorite. While it is an everyday item, its unique shape and sturdy build will make sure it survives many a wine tasting night.
These three products are but a glance at what options you have for a promotional product that lasts. Consider investing in a beautiful executive pen or a set of carefully imprinted glassware. If you need more ideas check out our website or give us a call at 877.300.2007, our team can help you find the perfect promotional product. Also, let us know what promotional products have lasted for you. Have you found any promotional items or apparel at a grandparent or parent’s house?
This is so true and where many businesses and organizations trip themselves up over. Sending out low cost promotional products can seem on the face of it to be a great idea, however what do they say about your brand. A cheap plastic pen which lasts for a couple of months before the ink dries up or in some cases falls apart says little about the quality of an organization. Where as a quality gift and also one which is highly practical for example an executive pen, business bag or portfolio will not only last for many months, if not years promoting your brand and message but will also reflect your organization in the perfect light.
Agreed. While low-end plastic pens will always have their place in our industry, there is nothing like gifting something that lasts. Look at the Pan-Am flight bags that are now considered vintage classics! The airline could have gone for a quick, cheap fix but instead with a sturdy and classic design that has stood the test of time!