Promo Products

Last year, print professionals continued to navigate the rocky path of an economic recession. Nevertheless, overall sales figures were up from 2008. Were manufacturers able to hold on to their modest success? The answer is not so simple.

It's hard to believe, but the holidays are just around the corner. First Halloween will hit us, and then in the blink of an eye, chestnuts will be roasting on an open fire. If I learned anything from my mother, it's start holiday preparations early. She started her holiday planning in August and was finished by September's end, and when everyone else was running around like a maniac, she was sipping wine by the fire, relaxed as could be. So in honor of my mom, I'd like to start stoking the holiday fires today. August is here and the time is right to cash in on those highly coveted fourth quarter sales.

Do you sell to frustrated huntresses in search of added protection? If you want to ease their plight and make strides in the apparel market, this month's mystery product can help.

Are you looking to enforce brand presence and guarantee your products are opened every time? If you want to make a wonderful impression on potential clients, this month's mystery product can help.

SanMar, a supplier of imprintable apparel and accessories, in Seattle, introduced the 2010 Holiday Gift Guide, aimed at encouraging sales for the profitable gift-giving season.

Regardless of when this economic downturn began or any definitive signal that it has ended, most people who are actively engaged in the promotional advertising/specialty industry still are rolling along, but perhaps at a bit slower speed. Both the short- and long-term forecast for the promotional advertising/specialty industry is pretty strong (or can be).

You may be wondering what more there is to know or learn about calendars, a product that has not gone through any drastic changes in centuries. What could I possibly say that you don't already know about this legendary promotional product? Plenty. Advertising calendars have been a major player in the industry for such a long time that pieces printed back in the 19th century and early 20th century are quite valuable. For example, according to Kovels.com, the well-respected antiques and collectibles print and online price guide, a 19th Century Coca-Cola Calendar can easily fetch around $1,000.

Freeport, New York-based Chocolate Inn Ltd., announced that it has finalized a strategic partnership with Nassau Candy Distributors Inc.

New Kensington, Pennsylvania-based Leed’s, a member of Polyconcept North America, the fourth largest supplier within the promotional products industry, is offering USB memory devices in custom shapes through WorldSource, its money-saving sourcing service.

So Little time, so much to choose from. By now you have probably perused many of the major trade shows in the promotional products industry. And it is a safe bet you have seen products covering the gamut of niche markets from healthcare to food and drink.