Brands

Every brand wants to stand out. Whether it’s at trade shows, client meetings, or company events, the goal is always the same: make a lasting impression. But what if the smartest move is actually… smaller?

Mini promotional products are definitely having a moment. As people look for useful, on-the-go items that fit seamlessly into their routines, compact merch is stepping into the spotlight. These scaled-down versions of classic products are showing up everywhere—from trade show swag bags to influencer kits—and they’re making a big impact. Practical, portable, and surprisingly powerful, mini promos give brands a clever way to show up in all the right places. Sometimes, less really is more.

The new year kicks off with fresh ideas and groundbreaking products at the back-to-back hosted national events: CES and the North-American Promotional Products Show, PPAI Expo. 

CES 2025 set the stage for the future of technology, unveiling game-changing innovations from global tech leaders, days later PPAI Expo gathered over 10,000 promotional product distributors, showcasing the latest in branded apparel, merch, swag, and innovative promotional merchandise. 

This year’s standout products blend functionality, innovation, and everyday practicality. From ultra-portable entertainment to cutting-edge wellness tech, here are the must-see highlights from CES 2025 and PPAI Expo.

As competition for audience attention continues to ratchet up, some suggest that the importance of building meaningful connections with customers and team members has shifted from being a “nice to have” to a necessity. It’s been proven that consumers are drawn to people and companies that understand what’s important to them and share their values, and while traditional marketing techniques focus on features and benefits, emotional marketing is said to tap into feelings, creating deeper, long-lasting bonds. So, is emotional marketing the next step in elevating your company’s presence and nurturing stronger relationships?

Ever noticed how a simple branded mug can spark a conversation or how a tote bag with your logo can turn heads at a local market? Company merchandise isn’t just about slapping your logo on products; it’s a chance to tell your brand’s story and forge meaningful connections. But how do you make the most of it?

Have you ever wondered what makes a promotional gift stand out from the rest? In an age where every company is competing for attention, how do you choose something that sparks joy, inspires loyalty, or resonates on a personal level?

With consumers craving authenticity and deeper emotional connections, the landscape of promotional gifting is evolving rapidly. But what are the key trends this year? And more importantly, why should you care?

You know that feeling when you spot a package waiting for you? Maybe it’s at your doorstep, maybe it’s on your desk but there’s an undeniable rush of excitement as you tear into it, like opening presents on Christmas morning, but during an otherwise ordinary day. That’s the magic of a thoughtfully crafted unboxing experience. It’s more than just the item inside; it’s about creating a moment of joy from the second someone lays eyes on that box. Done right, unboxing turns a simple gift into a moment that sticks with them long after the last item is revealed.

In a world full of endless choices and fleeting attention spans, capturing and holding your audience’s focus feels like an uphill battle. We are all fighting for those precious few seconds of attention, and let’s be honest, it’s getting tougher every day. So, how do you ensure your company stands out in a sea of competition? Is there some kind of secret sauce that can give you the edge? What if the secret to your company’s success isn’t creating something entirely new but rather partnering with recognizable retail brands who already have a seat at the table?