Hot for 2021!

As 2020 comes to an end, this is a great time to look back and reflect on the journey the last 12 months have been. To say that the year was unprecedented, uncertain and tumultuous is an understatement, and we can only hope things improve in the New Year. Although 2020 was filled with challenges, it also left behind some valuable learnings about the future of advertising and the promotional products industry, so in the end it’s not all bad! Below is a breakdown of the trends we are expected to see next year, so you can get a head start on 2021 and start planning your promotional marketing campaign using products that increase exposure, while keeping your brand relevant.

Cleanliness

The first group of products we are expecting to be in high demand are products that emphasize on cleanliness and maintaining hygiene. At this point the idea of being mindful about germs and washing our hands constantly has been so deeply ingrained in our lifestyles that it will be hard to overlook this practice. Whether you want to call it fear, paranoia or simply being mindful many of the protocols put in place to diminish social contact will have a lasting effect that will carry on into 2021.

Turning the year does not simply mean people will forget everything that previously transpired, therefore personalizing items such as sanitizers, sprays and hand wipes could earn you some valuable exposure among the public as the pandemic will continue to be a talking point, at least for the beginning part of the year. Alternatively no touch tools and lanyards (for use with contactless keyfobs) are other options that can help you spread the word about your business as recipients will find value in products that reduce contact with surfaces.

Tech + Smartphone Accessories

This year, as we were stuck inside our homes during quarantine our electronics and smart devices became the MVPs for defeating boredom, and in some cases these products became necessary for carrying out our jobs. With that in mind, we have these suggestions to help you promote your business! Consider adding your logo to some tech and smartphone accessories as this category will continue to buzz next year. 2020 demonstrated how important these devices are to our everyday life as we turned to them to keep us connected. Our dependence on technology only seems to increase, and demand for products in this category is not expected to slow down any time soon so you may benefit from investing in branded phone grips, stands and earphones which are suitable for company gifts and general giveaways.

Sustainability

This trend should not come as a surprise as this category has become increasingly popular in the last few years. With cities and even entire states banning single use plastics, and people becoming more conscientious about reducing plastic waste, reusable items are necessary. Eco-friendly options include personalized water bottles, tumblers and mugs in the drinkware section. We also expect an increase in demand for products made from sustainable materials such as totes derived from Hemp and Jute. Bamboo items remain highly sought after products due to their elegant rustic appeal and ability to replace many of their plastic counter-parts.

Beyond having a great product and service, staying in the loop with current trends can help your brand stand out. The previous year left us valuable indications as to the direction the promo products industry is headed in 2021. These are only predictions based on our findings, and if we have learned anything this year is that it can all change in the blink of an eye!

To stay informed with the latest info, and for more promo product ideas check out our other blog entries.