Promotional products are a widely used and well-known marketing tool. They are utilised for various occasions and purposes, from creating a buzz around a new launch to rewarding staff. Promotional products are an ever-evolving marketing tool that is here to stay. Unlike digital marketing ads, you can’t scroll past a physical promotional item in your possession.
It’s important to consider key promotional product statistics and trends to ensure you are branding the right merch for your intended audience. Utilising promotional product insights will guarantee that your brand resonates with its intended audience, delivers value and makes your brand memorable.
If you purchase branded merchandise, then here are the promotional product statistics you need to know in 2025:
Promotional Products for Engagement & Brand Recall
88% of people research a company after receiving branded merchandise
85% are more likely to choose a brand after receiving promotional items
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Promotional Products
46% of consumers overall feel more favourable about brands offering eco-friendly items
Larger UK/EU distributors report a 43% increase in demand for sustainable promo products– with revenue over $5M
Event Statistics
Event Management Software company Bizzabo reported that in-person events grew 40.3% overall in the first five months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023
In the first half of 2024, Bizzabo saw a 60% increase in smaller, more personal events with fewer than 150 attendees
Promotional Product Statistics for Employee Morale
73% of workers say company promotional products boost their sense of belonging and pride
69% of people use or wear company-branded items outside of work
Promotional Product Longevity Statistics
When choosing promotional products, it is important to consider the longevity of an item. Products with higher longevity stay with customers for months, years, and even decades, thus creating a strong brand recall. By utilising the data below, you can invest in merchandise with a proven lasting value.
Based on the recent Ad Impressions Study by the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), here are the percentages of consumers who reported keeping and using various promotional products for at least one year:
| Product | Retention Rate |
|---|---|
| Drinkware | 63% |
| Calendars | 62% |
| Polo Shirts | 62% |
| Outerwear/Fleece (2+ years) | 61% |
| Performance Wear | 59% |
| Desk Accessories | 58% |
| Headwear | 56% |
| Umbrellas (2+ years) | 54% |
| Pens | 52% |
| Power Banks (2+ years) | 51% |
| T-Shirts (2+ years) | 47% |
| USB Drives (2+ years) | 44% |
| Bags (2+ years) | 43% |
| Health Products | 36% |
If you are looking for a promotional product that offers maximum longevity and consistent brand exposure, drinkware is an excellent choice. Its high retention rate means your brand will stay in front of your audience for longer, making it a highly effective option for long-term marketing impact.
These statistics represent the latest available data; as consumer behaviours and workplace trends continue to evolve, ongoing research will likely reveal shifts in promotional product retention over time.
How to Apply These Promotional Product Statistics to Your Next Marketing Campaign
Based on the data above, we suggest the following for an effective promotional product campaign in 2025:
- Prioritise eco-friendly promotional products
- Focus on longevity for a better return on investment
- Gift promotional products to staff to boost morale
- Opting for higher-quality promotional products can lead to longer retention and better brand exposure
Are you looking to make smarter, more impactful merchandise choices this year? Let us help you create a data-backed promotional product campaign that delivers results. Explore our bestselling branded products or get in touch for tailored advice.
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