Fall Frenzy
AS THE FOURTH QUARTER quickly approaches, manufacturers and distributors prepare for what is unquestionably the busiest time of year. Similar to retail, most companies dealing in promotional products will make their biggest sales push between September and December. New product lines, holiday bonuses and vacation time are among the numerous reasons this season holds so much weight. In an industry that enables end-users to reward customers with complimentary products, it makes sense to take advantage of the traditional gift-giving time of year.
Unfortunately, manufacturers of promotional items are forced to compete with more than each other during the holiday season. From the day the Halloween decorations go up, the entire economy shifts toward a consumer market, with everyone competing for the same dollar. How can manufacturers keep their products from being lost in the mix of holiday gifts? How can distributors convince end-users their products will stand out from the saturated crowd?
Recent trends in the promotions industry show high-quality, name-brand items gaining popularity with consumers. For distributors looking for a different sales approach, stress a product’s practicality.
Each month, BFL&S’s sister publication, Promotional Marketing magazine, showcases hundreds of promotional products in its feature stories and product departments. A diverse collection of new fall products from some of the industry’s leading producers follows.
Cup Runneth Over
Display logos with class and style on the Hampton Mug from Crown Products. The 16 oz. ceramic mug features a stainless-steel base and accent badges. It is perfect for home and office, and the eye-catching design will draw attention to any promotion. Available in white, blue (pictured) and black, the mug can be imprinted with either a 5⁄8x11⁄2" or 7⁄8x1" custom design on each side.
For more information, call (800) 367-2769.
Dress to Impress
Showcase company style with the Brentwood by Dunbrooke.
Wind- and moisture-resistant, the jacket features a lightweight poly-Oxford shell fabric with a full poly-mesh lining. Other attributes include a front zipper with antique-nickel pull tab, full elastic cuffs, partial elastic waistband, inner Cool Pockets and a cell phone pocket. The jacket is available in black, navy or spruce, with a khaki interior.
For more information, call (800) 641-3627.
Professional Appeal
The Kingsford pocket planner from Windmill Press brings sophistication to the traditional notebook.
This two-tone imitation leather pocket planner is available in four colors. A convenient ribbon marker allows easy access to important dates. It measures 35⁄8 x63⁄8" closed. Choose from more than 12 different styles of inserts to fit your customers’ needs.
For more information, call (800) 852-5208.
Back to School
Custom-printed school labels from Label Works always score high marks.
Available in a variety of colors and styles, these labels are excellent for promoting school spirit and acknowledging achievements. Educate end-users with these impressive, custom-printed, pressure-sensitive labels.
For more information, call (800) 522-3558.
Leave a Mark
Ever-Lite’s custom bookmarks are a great commemorative for special events and fundraising.
Reproduce a logo, a building or anything else in brass lacquered or 24K gold plated brass. Ornaments and bookmark designs can be in any shape, and may feature etchings and cutouts.
For more information, call (800) 891-4670.
Take a Break
Breakaway Calendars from Halls & Company attract attention all year round.
Every 81⁄2x11" magnetic sheet features 12 pop-out calendars and each can feature a different design.
The sheets can be printed with stock backgrounds or end-users can provide their own images. Breakaway Calendars are available with a .20" or .30" thickness.
For more information, call (800) 779-5612.
A Brief Encounter
Tumi’s Compact Large Screen Computer Brief by Indigo sublimely combines form and function.
The slim, organized brief can fit a 17" screen laptop. Features include a padded computer pocket, outside U-zip accessories pockets and umbrella pocket. Decoration is offered through a debossed luggage tag. The dimensions are 171⁄2x13x23⁄4".
For more information, call (888) 210-6164.
In the Bag
Gift wrap messages with Hospitality Mints and its Christmas Window Pouch Bag.
The festive bag features a transparent window that showcases 5.5 oz. of smooth buttermint creams. Each bag comes with a customized gift card that allows for two imprint panels.
The print areas are 21⁄4x21⁄4", and a four-color process imprint is available.
For more information, call (800) 797-4875.
- Companies:
- Label Works
Kyle A. Richardson is the editorial director of Promo Marketing. He joined the company in 2006 brings more than a decade of publishing, marketing and media experience to the magazine. If you see him, buy him a drink.