Promotional products can be a powerful tool for branding and marketing but to truly make an impact it’s essential to have a clear purpose in mind.
Ask yourself these questions:
Why is this product helpful to my recipient?
Why am I giving them the product?
Why will they choose to keep and use it?
By being purposeful in your choices, you can ensure that not only are you selecting the right products, but also showcasing your logo in a way that resonates with the recipient.
With so many options available, it’s crucial to have a clear intention in mind to make your promotional products truly stand out.

What does it mean to be purposeful?
Deliberate, resolute, calculated.
Whatever you like to call it being purposeful means making an informed decision and acting with intent. It can be easy to fall into the trap of simply getting a product like pens for the sake of getting something.
But like any marketing, a little thought about your target audience can make all the difference.
In the promotional merchandise space, this means putting thought into what product/s to select and what you’re going to display on the product.

What are the benefits of choosing better promotional products?
- Less wastage
- Better brand recall and appreciation
- Increased ROI
- Increased brand loyalty
- Synergy with other marketing campaigns
Steps to be more purposeful with your next campaign
- Define your target audience/recipients
- Set campaign goals that you are looking to achieve
- Brainstorm/get feedback from your target audience on what type of items might work best
- Choose what you want to display on your products such as a logo, inspirational message, brand values etc.
- Plan distribution and logistics. How are the products going to be given, stored etc?
- Follow up and engage with those who have received promotional merchandise
- Get recommendations and advice from an expert

Summing Up
In conclusion, by taking a little extra time to think about the purpose and relevance of your promotional merchandise, you can greatly increase the chances of success for your campaign.
Remember to consider your target audience, campaign goals, and the quality and design of the products you choose. If you need additional help or inspiration, don’t hesitate to reach out to merchandise experts who can provide tailored guidance and support.
With a little thought and planning, you can ensure that your promotional merchandise effectively promotes your brand and resonates with your target audience.

Matt has spent over eight years in Australia’s promotional products industry. As part of the Promotion Products marketing team, he manages product catalogues and content, keeping brands up to date with what’s new and what works. A contributor to the APPA Magazine, Matt brings practical insight into how quality merch helps businesses stand out.