1)      Promotional Products are not annoying! When planning an advertising campaign, and considering budgetary allocation, it is absolutely vital to consider the predicated response to various mediums. According to recent BPMA research, only 5% of survey respondents cited promotional gifts as annoying or unwelcome. Compare this to online banner ads, which were least popular, irritating 73% of those questioned. These results certainly dispel the myth that promotional products are unwanted.

2)      Promotional Products are not a modern phenomenon. Possibly the earliest product branding on record are commemorative buttons, issued for the inauguration of George Washington in 1789. In the UK, Pears Soap rolled out strong and targeted branding from the 19^th century; indeed, its advertisers are now collectable; both originals and replicas. And the PPAI (the Promotional Products Association International) was founded at the turn of the century in 1904. The promotional gifts industry has a long history – proof of its success.

3)      Promotional Products are almost as memorable as TV adverts. According to the BPMA survey, 39% of respondents cited TV ads as the most memorable form of advertising, with promotional gifts a close second at 35%. We all naturally think of television amongst the top advertising mediums; promotional gifts are on a par with this. Over half of the survey participants stated that a promotional product would be a catalyst for action – this is greater than TV, online advertising, print, and direct mail combined.

4)      Promotional Products are not a waste of money. In fact, 98% of the BPMA survey respondents agreed with this statement. Such products often have a myth of wastefulness around them, yet, in reality, they are actually highly valued and have proven results. They are also inexpensive in comparison to other forms of advertising, and have a greater longevity, producing a high ROI.

5)      The Promotional Industry Is Vast! The market value of promotional merchandise in the UK and Ireland has been estimated at a staggering £763 million (Sourcing City 2013).  Industry can only survive with demand; such a valuation proves the popularity of promotional gifts.

6)      Promotional Products can be forward thinking and innovative. The promotional industry strives to maintain an on-trend range of products. Of course, there remains a staple selection of tried and trusted items, such as mugs, pens, and mouse mats. But promotional suppliers work hard to ensure their ranges embrace the latest fashions, colours, themes, and gadgets. As soon as a concept reaches the high street, it will also be available as a branded equivalent. Matching the pantone colours of the season, replicating a must-have novelty, or providing accessories for the latest gadgets; all are possible within the remit of promotional products.

7)      Promotional Products are Quality Items. Rather than the all too often assumed picture of plastic gimmicks and giveaways, branding can be applied to high quality items. From smart phone accessories and speakers, to luxury wine gift sets and crystal glassware, and high capacity USB sticks, branding can be applied to good quality items with a high received value. Not only does this encourage long retention, it also reflects on the branding of the company, showing it in a professional and high grade light. Interestingly, hampers came top of the list – 43% of respondents cited a hamper as the most likely gift to make them take action or see the company in a more favourable light.

8)      On average, we own three promotional items each.  Again from BPMA research, the ‘average person’, based on the 100 surveyed, has three promotional products within sight at their desk or workplace. This could range from calendars and diaries, to mouse mats and coasters, or even to branded plant pots and stress toys. Whilst we all recognise and acknowledge such items, we often underestimate the true inherent value of keeping a branded item to hand. When making a decision, particularly when time is limited, having contact details readily available often helps sway the choice.

9)      Promotional Products Create a Memorable and Lasting Impression. An incredible 94% of respondents said that after six months, they could still remember the details of the company from which they received a promotional product.  This is almost a full 100%; a huge achievement compared to other forms of advertising, which are more readily viewed then dismissed. Having a physical tangible product promotes memory and recall by appealing to a number of the senses at once.