Editor’s Note: This article was updated in 2022 to reflect the latest research and popular promotional item ideas.
It happens to every business. You look at your collection of promo items and realize that it’s time for a change. But how do you pick the best popular promotional items that everyone will love?
Fear not! We’ve got some trending promotional product ideas that will help you catch attention at events, connect with customers and leave a lasting impression—at every budget level. Check them out!
Accessories for everyone’s favourite tech
According to Statista, in 2022, nearly 88% of Canadians own a cell phone.
That’s up 8% in just two years, making smartphone accessories an ideal giveaway when you want to make a long-lasting impression on a customer.
A Bamboo Dual Wireless Charging Pad is a perfect trending promotional product to give as a customer thank-you or employee anniversary gift. A Vibrant Wireless Speaker or a PopSockets® Phone Stand makes an excellent giveaway when you want to leave an extra-memorable impression on a new customer.
If you’re looking for a popular promotional item idea that’s budget-friendly and attention-grabbing, the Buddy Pen with Screen Cleaner is your friend. It combines a classic trade show giveaway with a techy twist that’s sure to get snatched up!
Fun and games
In a recent poll, 61% of Canadians considered themselves gamers (PDF), either online or offline. That’s a lot of people using games to relax and have fun with family and friends.
These popular promotional items offer a quick, easy-to-carry, easy-to-set-up way to encourage fun at community events or employee gatherings while also serving as a memorable prize or giveaway.
The Fun On the Go Tumble Tower, Corn Hole and Tic Tac Toe games have fun in the bag. Each of these trending promotional products comes with a drawstring bag that makes them easy to carry everywhere you go.
The classic Rubik’s Cube® is a fun giveaway for customers. Whether they keep it on their desk or share it with their kids, they’ll see your brand again and again and associate it with fun, positive feelings.
Drinkware they’ll thirst for
Drinkware is one of Canada’s most influential promotional items (PDF).
Better yet, it comes in a variety of styles and price points. The Halcyon Water Bottle with Quick Snap Lid is easy on the budget and has a cool look that will help you draw attention at trade shows and events. Set it out at your booth or offer one in exchange for contact information. The Contigo® West Loop Travel Tumbler is designed to keep beverages at the right temperature on the go. The recognizable brand makes this bottle a great raffle prize or customer referral thank-you gift.
If it’s a mug you’re looking for, we’ve got good news! Almost 75% of Canadians consume at least one cup of coffee per day.
If you’re looking for a simple mug to welcome new employees, the Cafe Bien Two-Tone Coffee Mug provides a warm greeting.
Clothing that’s a great fit
Apparel offers so many ways to make an impression.
A classic polo shirt, like a Mini-Pique Performance Polo for women or men, is perfect for a casual business day, a trip to the golf course, or as an addition to your employee uniform lineup. The Kinetic Performance 1/4-Zip Pullover is an excellent employee anniversary gift. Or give one to your best customers for the holidays or just to say thank you.
And don’t forget your future customers. Send the Rabbit Skins® Infant Fine Jersey Onesie to employees and clients welcoming a new baby.
Popular promotional items for your favourite customers
Say goodbye to giveaway monotony! Add these popular promotional items to your collection to connect with, reward and thank your customers and employees. If you are looking for fitness and wellness ideas, shop health gifts.
Check out our article about another popular promo item, pens.