Promotional pens have been a staple of business marketing for decades — and despite constant changes in digital advertising, their value hasn’t faded. In fact, as businesses become more selective about what they brand and distribute, pens are evolving rather than disappearing. Based on current ordering behaviour, sustainability priorities, and branding trends we’re seeing across Australia, here’s a practical look at the promotional pens businesses will be choosing in 2026 — and how to select the right option for your brand.
As one of the largest promotional pens suppliers in Australia, Cubic Promote works with organisations across every industry, giving us a clear view of what’s selling now and what’s gaining momentum.
1. Plastic Promotional Pens Still Lead for Volume Campaigns
Despite growing interest in premium options, plastic promotional pens remain the most ordered choice — especially for trade shows, conferences, mail-outs, and large-scale brand awareness campaigns. For businesses ordering in bulk, plastic pens deliver unmatched reach for the budget.
Why plastic pens continue to dominate?
- Low cost per unit
- Lightweight and easy to distribute
- Excellent branding visibility
- Reliable performance for everyday use
Explore the full range of plastic promotional pens here
Best Sellers Businesses Already Trust
Two of the most consistently ordered pens — and likely to remain popular in 2026 — include:
- 2km Distance Pens – A dependable everyday pen designed for longevity and smooth writing.
- Viva Solid Colour Brandable Ball Pens – Clean branding, strong colour options, and broad appeal.
These styles suit organisations that want maximum exposure without sacrificing reliability.
2. Recycled Pens Will Continue to Gain Ground
Sustainability isn’t a passing trend — and in 2026, eco-conscious promotional pens will be an expectation, not a novelty. Businesses are increasingly choosing recycled pens because they:
- Align with ESG and sustainability reporting
- Send a clear brand message without extra explanation
- Offer similar pricing to standard plastic pens
Shop Eco Promotional Pens here
A strong choice for brands wanting a responsible option is:
This type of pen works well for councils, education providers, healthcare organisations, and any business wanting to show environmental awareness without moving into premium pricing.
3. Metal Promotional Pens for Long-Term Brand Perception
While plastic pens are well-suited for high-volume distribution, metal pens are becoming the preferred option for relationship-based marketing. In 2026, more businesses will choose metal pens for:
- Client gifting
- Staff onboarding
- Executive meetings
- Premium event packs
Metal pens feel more substantial, last longer, and tend to stay on desks — meaning fewer impressions wasted.
Browse metal promotional pens here
A Rising Favourite: Shiny & Modern Finishes
A style likely to grow in popularity is the:
Shiny, contemporary finishes align well with modern branding and tech-focused businesses — making them a strong 2026 pick.
4. Gift-Quality Pens for Premium Branding Moments
For businesses looking to make a stronger impression, gift-style pens are becoming increasingly common, particularly in B2B environments. These are typically used when:
- Welcoming new clients
- Rewarding long-term partners
- Presenting branded materials at high-value meetings
A refined option we often recommend is:
This style reinforces professionalism and quality — traits that matter when brand perception is critical.
5. Cheap Plastic Pens Still Have a Place — When Chosen Wisely
Budget-friendly pens aren’t going anywhere. In fact, cheap plastic pens will remain essential for mass distribution in 2026 — as long as businesses choose reliable models. A proven low-cost option is:
These pens are ideal for:
- Community events
- School programs
- High-volume awareness campaigns
The key trend isn’t eliminating budget pens — it’s choosing cheap pens that still reflect well on the brand.
Shop the range of Cheap Plastic Pens here
What This Means for Businesses Planning Ahead?
In 2026, the most successful promotional pen strategies won’t rely on a single style. Instead, businesses will:
- Use plastic pens for reach
- Choose recycled pens for values-led messaging
- Invest in metal and gift pens for relationships
- Match pen quality to campaign purpose
This layered approach ensures branding feels intentional — not generic.
Need Help Choosing the Right Promotional Pens?
With decades of experience and one of the largest promotional pen ranges in Australia, Cubic Promote helps businesses select pens that suit their audience, budget, and brand goals. If you’re planning campaigns for 2026 and want guidance on:
- Best-selling pen styles
- Bulk pricing options
- Sustainable alternatives
- Sample recommendations
Our team is ready to help you make the right choice.
