Defining and creating something that is considered cool, is incredibly difficult. You may try really hard, but that doesn't make something cool. For example, Promotional products can be fresh, but not many businesses can achieve this. So it is somewhat delightful, that I came across this range of exciting custom branded merchandise by, of all places, the United States Postal Service.

 

  1. USPS uses creativity to connect with customers.
  2. Custom designs make branding memorable.
  3. Collaborations create unexpected coolness.

 

The US Postal Service Does Marketing

What makes the modern US Postal service's approach to marketing so unique is how dedicated they are to getting personal with their customers. They use direct mail campaigns to send promotions and discounts straight to people's mailboxes. Plus, they've got a killer social media presence where they share behind-the-scenes peeks at the postal service and fun facts about shipping. And get this - they even have an online store that sells stamps and other USPS-themed merch. That way people can rep their love for the postal service while also taking care of postage needs. Overall, it seems like USPS is putting in work to stay relevant and connect with customers in new ways beyond just delivering packages!

 

Seeing what kids and young adults are into, is always a good gauge into what is considered cool. Take this example from the United States Postal Service. As we mentioned above, for an old institution they certanly have their finger on the pulse when it comes to marketing trends.

 

Recently, the US Postal Service has combined with the teenage-oriented label Forever 21 and have created this range of interesting-looking promotional apparel. The juxtaposition, of something so ordinary, such as the UPS with something that is high fashion, is what makes this interesting. What stands out about this collection, is the use of eye-catching fluro colours and the heavy use of custom printed logo motifs throughout the garments.

What is on Offer

So what is available in this exciting collaboration between, a somewhat common brand name and an exciting label for young streetwear includes:

What makes this collection cool is indeed the absurdity. There's nothing particularly practical about a fully transparent jacket and yet when you combine it with the highly fashionable trackie-dacks and cropped shirts, they genuinely help to enhance the look of the Postal Service branding on each item. Each piece serves as a talking point in its own right though, and that's what the US Postal Service has gotten so right about this campaign - young people are discussing their brand!

The Importance of Custom Design

Custom designed promotional products can make a big difference in creating excitement and interest among audiences, especially when trying to be relevant and on-trend. A custom design can provide businesses with added incentives to keep its brand on top of consumer trends. Custom designs allow companies to create products that are:

  • Unique: Custom designs allow businesses to distinguish themselves from other companies and stand out in a crowded market.
  • On-trend: Custom designs allow businesses to stay up-to-date with current design trends and to incorporate specifics about a demographic.
  • Brand-specific: Custom designs allow businesses to unify its entire product line with a thoughtful design, creating an impression rather than an average gift.
  • Relevant: Custom designed merchandise that reflects the interests and preferences of customers can be highly relevant and appealing.
  • Reflected in Brand Image: Customized promotional products can complement your visual identity, helping to reinforce branding and overall marketing efforts.

Summary

In conclusion, the USPS collaboration with Forever 21 proves that unexpected coolness can be achieved through custom designed merchandise. The collection's unique and absurd approach has generated interest and excitement among young people, making the USPS more relevant than ever. If you want to make your brand stand out and appeal to your target audience, custom designs can be a great way to do just that. 

 

So what type of industry or work do you do? Do you think your organisation has what it takes to pull off something that is considered cool?

 

If you want fresh ideas on how to make this happen, please contact us! We definitely know what it takes to make your logo and branding desirable amongst the cool crowd.