Promotional merchandise has been a staple of marketing campaigns and major events for decades.
Reason being, they work. Really well!
However, by taking a more intentional and thoughtful approach to your merchandise choices, you can create items that are both sustainable and meaningful.
Here’s 5 EASY ways to minimize your swag footprint:
🌱 Choose sustainable materials: The first step in creating sustainable promotional merchandise is to choose materials that are environmentally friendly. This could mean opting for items made from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic or paper, or choosing materials that are biodegradable or compostable, such as bamboo or cornstarch. Ask your supplier to suggest sustainable alternatives that will reduce your environmental impact.
🌱 Consider the lifespan of the product: Rather than opting for items that will be used once and then thrown away, choose items that are durable and longer-lasting. This could mean choosing high-quality items such as reusable tote bags, water bottles, or keep cups. Quality products your customers will hold on to elevate both the status of your brand and show your commitment to making a difference.
🌱 Tie your swag to a meaningful message: To have a lasting effect, promotional marketing should be intentional and authentic, not simply performative. By taking a thoughtful approach (how do these products tie into our broader brand message?) and considering the recipient (what type of product will be most useful, meaningful or surprising to them?) you will create merchandise that has a much longer lasting impact.
🌱 Consider the packaging: Opt for sustainable materials where possible (recycled paper, biodegradable plastics), minimize excess packaging (do the products need to be individually packaged?) and encourage customers to recycle (a friendly message can make all the difference).
🌱 Encourage reuse and repurposing: Finally, when distributing your promotional merchandise, encourage your audience to reuse or repurpose the items. This could mean including a message on the packaging or item itself, reminding people to bring their tote bag to the grocery store or to repurpose a coffee cup as a plant pot. By encouraging reuse and repurposing, you get a trifecta of an upside – you extend the lifespan of the item, minimize your environmental impact and allow your brand message to live on for longer.
Looking to source a range of sustainable merch your customers will love? Give our team a call and we can create a presentation that perfectly matches your brief.
#promotionalproducts #brandedmerchandise #sustainable #ecofriendlyproducts #inckmerchandise
