Things We're Leaving Behind in 2021

2021 has been a great year for promotional advertising. As the year is winding down this is a great time to look at future promotional opportunities that can help you achieve your objectives in the coming year. Staying up-to-date with changing trends and fads is one of the ways you can better connect with your audience. Likewise, experimenting with new products and getting them to your recipients before your competitors do allows you to stand out above the rest and remain on top of the public’s minds.

Protective Gear

Masks, neck gaiters, bandanas, and other face coverings took over the promotional products market by storm in 2020 and continued to trend throughout 2021. As we enter the new year, renewed hope and the promise of a fresh start is likely to motivate business owners to try new products and move away from those that were popular the previous year such as PPE. While still important to use in conjunction with established measures, we expect event planners and company owners to favor tech, office, and other products that will serve as a way to welcome employees back to the office.

Loungewear

With many people returning to work and others exercising a hybrid schedule, the athleisure trend is expected to slow down as formal wear, polo shirts, and work jackets will be looking to make a comeback. As the economy continues to recover this will enable businesses and event planners to look for more creative ways to stay connected with their audiences. A common trend in 2021 was to send out a branded t-shirt and sweatpants combo which recipients could use as they worked comfortably from home. Leave these products behind and instead try personalizing apparel that recipients can use as they commute to work or class.

Waste

Sustainability continues to be at the forefront of public consciousness which has promoted some businesses to become more environmentally aware and look for products that align with these causes. As a result, we expect to leave waste behind as we move away from single-use plastics and emphasize using more sustainable products. Reusable water bottles, tote bags, and other items derived from natural sources like bamboo or hemp will be back in the spotlight in 2022 as companies can use eco-friendly branded products to support their cause marketing campaigns.

Start the year off on the right foot by adding new elements to your marketing campaign, such as branded products that can help you get closer to your customers and team members. Well-timed promotions that make use of trending products increase the likelihood of recipients remembering who gave them the gift. A memorable and unique promotion can go a long way and even translate into more impressions for your brand down the road.