From Trends to Touchpoints: How to Turn Branded Merchandise into Smart Marketing Moves

Every product has the power to tell your brand’s story. When used strategically, branded merchandise can be more than a giveaway — it becomes a powerful marketing tool that builds visibility, connection, and loyalty.

And the numbers back it up: 83% of business leaders say branded merchandise improves brand recall and campaign performance (PPAI Research, 2025).

So how do you turn trending products into meaningful touchpoints for your organization? Start by thinking beyond the logo and seeing merch as part of your overall marketing strategy.

Here are four ways to put the trends from our From Trends to Touchpoints catalog into action.

1 - Make Recognition More Meaningful

Inspired by the “Keepers” trend

Recognition is one of the simplest, most effective ways to strengthen relationships inside and outside your organization. The best recognition gifts aren’t disposable — they’re the ones people actually keep and use.

• Choose products that last. Premium apparel, quality accessories, or modern lifestyle pieces reinforce appreciation long after they’re received.
• Add a personal touch. Custom decoration or packaging turns a product into a keepsake.
• Connect recognition to milestones. Tie gifts to anniversaries, promotions, or company wins so they feel like part of your brand story.

Companies with strong recognition programs see 31% lower turnover and 12x higher engagement. (Gallup Workplace Report, 2025)

Marketing Move: Recognition that’s intentional and well-crafted builds loyalty and keeps your brand visible every day.

2 - Keep Your Brand Top of Mind

Inspired by the “Always On” trend

The best marketing doesn’t stop when the campaign ends — it stays visible. Choose products that fit seamlessly into your audience’s day-to-day lives.

• Think function first. Hybrid work gear, tech accessories, and travel items offer utility that earns repeat use.
• Blend form and function. Modern design and retail-inspired finishes elevate your brand's perception.
• Stay consistent. Use cohesive materials, color palettes, and messaging across all branded items for a unified look.

63% of consumers keep a promotional product for more than a year, creating ongoing visibility and brand recall. (PPAI Consumer Study, 2025)

Marketing Move: Everyday products deliver everyday impressions — turning useful merch into long-term visibility.

3 - Build Buzz and Engagement

Inspired by the “Make Some Noise” trend

Great campaigns create moments people want to talk about. The right merch can make that moment louder, longer, and more shareable.

• Create content-ready products. Choose bold, colorful, or photo-worthy pieces that people love to share.
• Use merch to launch. Build anticipation with pre-event mailers or post-launch thank-you kits.
• Collaborate for impact. Work with artists, influencers, or local makers to create limited-edition designs that feel exclusive.

83% of business leaders say branded merchandise improves brand recall and campaign performance. (PPAI Research, 2025)

Marketing Move: Attention drives engagement. Use merch to amplify your story and extend your reach.

4 - Strengthen Culture and Community

Inspired by the “Belong Here” trend

People want to feel connected to something bigger — and branded merchandise can help build that sense of belonging.

• Welcome people in. Onboarding kits and volunteer gifts make teams feel part of your brand from day one.
• Reflect your values. Support sustainability, diversity, or local communities through product choices.
• Celebrate connection. Use merch to bring people together for causes, events, and company milestones.

Employees who feel a strong sense of belonging are 5.7x more likely to be engaged and 70% more likely to stay with their organization. (McLean & Company, 2025)

Marketing Move: Belonging builds advocacy — and advocacy builds strong brands.