Our industry is as fluid as the fashion industry. What’s new today is replaced with something more creative and effective tomorrow. New and fresh has an energy to it and it gives us confidence to try ideas we might not have explored previously. There are tradeshows each year for promotional products and they are the hotbed of new idea releases and creative greatest hits for the next year. We had a chance to see some of the latest products and now we’re watching them climb in the top trending categories for promotional products in 2016.
Fitness and Health Products
The lifestyle and fitness market has exploded with interest in the promotional industry and follows the trends in consumer electronic products. We’ve seen continued exponential growth in products like sports bottles, fitness tracking watches, pedometers, and hand sanitizers. (Source: ClassicExhibits). As we continue to adjust our strategies to target a younger market, it’s important to note that studies show Millennials are nearly twice as health conscious as their Baby Boomer parents (in terms of eating right and exercising), which will continue to play a role in the growing health and wellness market.
Unique and trendy water bottles with practical solutions, interesting shapes, and bright colors are huge right now. These items will make working out easy and fun. Keep your eye out for fruit infusers, mason jars, and geometric tumblers.
Environmentally-friendly Products
If bamboo wasn’t a household word before, it certainly is now. Many consumers are looking for recycled content and other environmentally friendly products. 55% of global online consumers are willing to pay more for products and services from companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impact. (Source: Nielson). In addition, Shoppers tend to give “moral license” to companies they perceive as being green, making brand names almost as important as organic labels or eco-certifications that may appear on packaging. A strong environmental reputation is really important to today’s consumers.
Tech Accessories
We’ve transitioned to digital. In a world where 93% of adults in our country have cell phones, it’s no surprise that all the accessories to go with a mobile device are becoming increasingly popular. Promotional products are stepping up their game when it comes to tech. From Bluetooth speakers to stylus pens, to chargers to cord organizers, the demand for tech accessories continues to grow and we must continue to meet it. As PPAI advises, “If you aren’t thinking about mobile, then you will be left behind. Almost half of U.S. adults’ media time is spent with digital and almost half of that time is on mobile devices. The internet is expected to have three billion users in 2015, representing 42.4% of the entire world’s population. Mobile consumption is expected to overtake tablet in 2015.” (Source: PPAI)
And that’s the latest in promo products. If you have any ideas, we’d love hear about things you’ve tried, promotional products you like, or ideas you might have for the future.
Think it Then ink it is a promotional products and branded apparel company in Verona, WI. We build brands with logoed corporate shirts, team apparel, and corporate event products from our vertically integrated design and fulfillment center. Find out about our custom web apparel stores or available products and services at ThinkitTheninkit.com or call us at 608-845-5300.
