Combine! Rather than simply giving a printed mug, why not fill it with personalised coins, pens, or even a folded t-shirt, for a great first impression?

 Theme.  By using a common theme , colour, or shape, standard promotional items can become relevant and highly desirable. Tie your promotions in to a specific event or advertising theme. This creates a far longer lasting impression than simply branding a standard mug or pen.

 Harness the power of association. By choosing top-name brands rather than generic items, your logo will be associated with a high perceived quality. For example, choosing a Slazenger running top or a Parker pen will create an instant impression, and a favourable judgement from your customers.

 Take advantage of current trends. Taking advantage of current trends and crazes is a savvy way to get the most from your promotional products. Identify current popular trends – or indeed the ‘next big thing’ – and personalise with your company details. For example, jute bags were the choice of celebrities recently, and this filtered down to the masses. Applying a branding to such a product does not detract from the appreciation by recipients – a win-win situation! Reflecting current events is also a great way to enhance the visibility of your logo – many companies are favouring sports themes this summer, and the ubiquitous red, white and blue colour scheme.

 Say Thank You. Everyone appreciates being appreciated. Use promotional gifts as a loyalty reward for customers, or as a token of appreciation for employees’ dedication to their roles. The feelgood factor generated will be associated with your branding. A simple gesture of appreciation will set your company is a positive light, and may even generate more business as a result.

Ambient advertising. Consider branding items a little out of the ordinary. The unexpected often has a greater impact. Rather than opting for a pen or a mousemat, for example, why not apply your logo an integral part of daily life such as   oyster card holders? Relevant businesses could produce advertising banners for supermarket trolleys, or motor industries could brand a range of car accessories such as wing covers or tax disc holders.

 Be eye-catching. Whilst companies spend huge budgets creating a great logo, promotional products really benefit from being additionally eye-catching. Instead of keeping to a simple one colour print, choose an item that can be digitally printed in full colour, such as a dye sublimation mug.

Use Seasonal Advantages. Never under estimate the power of the seasons. Recipients appreciate a well-timed gift – an umbrella in autumn, an ice scraper in winter.

Entice your audience. Free gifts are a great crowd puller. Companies at shows and exhibitions frequently use giveaways to lure customers to their stand. Indeed, a high profile giveaway carried by recipients will advertise your presence to the entire crowd. For a double edged marketing strategy