We've all encountered or even been given promotional items at some stage. Whether it was a promotional pen at a tradeshow or a t-shirt you won at a concert, promo items are no longer limited to these basic giveaway goodies that previous generations have relied on. Things have changed, and businesses like Cubic Promote are at the forefront of the change in marketing swag from cheap freebies to bespoke corporate gifts. Today on the blog, let's delve into why this shift has occurred and why it's important to take note of when you make your branding choices in the future.

The Shifting of Brand Awareness

Modern Australian businesses are investing more in their brand reputation than ever before, and let's be real; whether they're a burger restaurant or a home nursing service, they're keen to showcase their values, culture, and individuality in a way that will draw attention. By providing high-quality, tailored items; your business can show its audience (whether staff or clients) that you are committed to fostering a long-lasting relationship with them using meaningful goodies they'll appreciate.

Millennials and Gen Z

Both millennials and Gen Z tend to prioritise experiences and authentic connections over flimsy pamphlets or generic handout items. As a result, Aussie businesses are moving away from budget promotional item staples like plastic pens and opting for personalised gifts that double as memorable keepsakes like custom cheese boards or candles. This approach allows organisations from various industries to connect with younger generations in ways that matter to them while still providing gifts that will resonate with other generations as well.

Personalisation = Appealing

We all love feeling special, and bespoke corporate gifts can help your recipients feel individually catered to at an affordable price. Having your promotional product supplier customise your corporate gifts with a recipient's name or initials can make them feel appreciated and more connected to the brand. I mean, who wouldn't remember a knife block or set of BBQ tools personalised just for them?

Because personalisation is so memorable, if you use quality merchandise with your personalised message, recipients will be sure to recall your business in high regard. Personalisation is not just about the gift itself but about using it as a functional tool for building a connection between the company and the recipient, and if you pick the right item, you'll really start making headway on this!

Social Media Impact

Social media has had a significant influence on how companies utilise promotional items. While cheap plastic goodies are budget-friendly, a well-crafted, personalised corporate gift is more likely to be shared on social media. When recipients share their promotional hamper or gift pack on their socials, your brand enjoys positive free advertising and increased visibility.

This can lead to higher engagement and conversion rates and a general positive brand image enhancement. So next time you're thinking about promo gift ideas, consider which promotional products look incredible on social media and go from there!

Environmental and Ethical Concerns

Aussies are increasingly aware of environmental and ethical issues concerning product supply. Because of this, it is important that local businesses continue to adapt to audience expectations and focus on investing in promotional gifts that will be received positively by Australians concerned about sustainability. This means looking beyond cheap, disposable giveaway items made out of virgin plastic -- these products don't last long and they add to waste when thrown away.

Try instead bespoke corporate gifts made locally and/or from sustainable materials. Although these will be slightly more expensive than the cheaper option, they will be longer-lasting and thus more ethical overall. It's important to keep in mind that these gifts are often seen as a reflection of the company's values, which can influence customers' perception of the brand as well.

Conclusion

Promotional products are going through a huge shift in their overall perception and image amongst Aussie consumers. Gone are the days of people assuming a corporate gift will be a flimsy cheap pen. Now, recipients anticipate thoughtful gifts that will prove functional long-term. Of course, there's still a place for cheap conference goodies like mints; the packaging has just improved, and the range diversified. So, the next time you receive a bespoke corporate gift, enjoy using it and reflecting on the business that gave it to you -- they're a brand that cares about what they're putting out into the world.