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Merchandise, or “merch,” refers to branded products, and is a powerful way to promote your business, connect with customers and bring your brand to life. Whether it’s a sleek T-shirt, a reusable water bottle or a handy notebook, the right types of merch can leave a lasting impression (and boost brand visibility!).
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of merchandise and how they can elevate your business. From creative ideas to practical tips, you’ll discover how to create custom merch that reflects your brand and resonates with your audience.
- Branded merch is a creative way to market your business and build customer loyalty.
- From apparel to tech accessories, there’s merch for every audience and occasion.
- Thoughtful design is key to making your merch stand out.
- VistaPrint offers a wide range of customizable options to bring your ideas to life.
Source: Branded merchandise is a great way to promote your business via VistaPrint.
Types of merch to elevate your brand
Your merchandise should do more than just promote your business. It should create meaningful connections with your audience by combining practicality, creativity and quality. From clothing to tech accessories, the right branded merch can make your business unforgettable. These are some of the most popular types of merch to inspire your next marketing move.
Branded apparel
Branded apparel is one of the most effective types of merchandise for building awareness. T-shirts, hoodies, hats and jackets allow your customers to showcase your brand in their everyday lives. The versatility of branded clothing makes it ideal for a range of businesses, from startups to large companies.
Custom clothing works well because it’s practical and visible. Think about it: every time someone wears your branded T-shirt, your business is being advertised to everyone they encounter. Clothing is also highly customizable, giving you the freedom to create designs that reflect your brand’s personality.
Use bold, high-contrast colors for your logo to make it pop. Need help? Check out our how-to design T-shirts guide.
Drinkware
Drinkware is a popular choice for branded merch because it’s both functional and appealing. Items like mugs, water bottles and tumblers can be used every day, keeping your brand top of mind for customers. Plus, with the growing trend toward eco-friendly products, reusable drinkware sends a positive message about sustainability.
These items are great for giveaways, corporate events or even as part of a loyalty program. A branded mug on a customer’s desk or a water bottle at the gym creates multiple opportunities for your logo to be seen.
Choose designs that encourage everyday use, like motivational quotes or sleek patterns.
Source: Branded mugs are a promotional item that customers can use every day via VistaPrint.
Office and stationery items
Office supplies and stationery, such as notebooks, pens, planners and mouse pads, offer practicality and are excellent for promoting your brand in professional settings. These items are especially useful for businesses targeting corporate clients or professionals.
Stationery is also a fantastic way to show your attention to detail. A well-designed planner or a sleek pen can enhance your brand’s image, making you look professional and reliable. These items are perfect for employee gifts, trade shows or customer giveaways.
Keep your branding subtle for a polished, sophisticated look.
Tech accessories
In today’s digital-first world, tech accessories like phone cases, PopSockets, chargers and USB drives are some of the most appealing types of merch. These products are highly practical, making them a favorite for tech-savvy audiences.
Tech accessories also offer a modern, innovative feel that aligns well with cutting-edge businesses. Whether you’re giving them out at an event or selling them online, these items add value while keeping your brand visible to the public.
Go for sleek, modern designs that complement the latest tech trends.
Lifestyle and household products
Lifestyle products such as tote bags, candles, reusable bags and kitchenware resonate with customers who appreciate practicality and aesthetics. These items are particularly effective for businesses in industries like retail, hospitality or home goods.
A branded tote bag, for example, is not only practical but also eco-friendly, appealing to customers who prioritize sustainability. Household items like candles or kitchen tools can make your brand a part of someone’s daily routine, creating a lasting connection.
Opt for clean, minimalist designs to guarantee that your merch looks stylish in any home.
Source: Consider the types of merchandise that your audience will want to use via VistaPrint.
Event and promotional merch
When you’re looking to make an impact at events, promotional merch is your go-to. Items like keychains, lanyards, stress balls and tote bags are affordable, portable and easy to distribute.
These products are perfect trade show giveaway ideas, conferences or community events where visibility is key. They help attendees remember your brand long after the event is over. Plus, small and practical items like these are often kept and reused, giving your brand even more exposure.
Get inspired and pick out your merch in our master list of small business promotional items.
How to choose the right merch for your business
Choosing the right merch can feel overwhelming with so many options available, but it all comes down to understanding your business and your audience. By focusing on your goals, audience preferences and budget, you can create merchandise that truly resonates and delivers results. These are the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect merchandise for your brand.
Understand your audience
Your customers are at the heart of your business, so tailoring your merch to their preferences is key. Think about what they use daily and what aligns with their lifestyle.
For example, a younger, tech-savvy audience appreciates USB drives or phone accessories, while a more eco-conscious group prefers reusable drinkware or tote bags. If your audience is professional, consider office supplies like notebooks or pens that align with their day-to-day activities.
The better you know your audience, the more likely your merch will be to make an impact and encourage them to engage with your brand.
Source: Functional merchandise will get your brand seen by new audiences via VistaPrint.
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Match merch to your brand identity
Your merch should be an extension of your brand. Think about your company’s personality, values and aesthetic when choosing products and designing them. For example, if your brand is all about creativity, go for vibrant, artistic designs. If you’re focused on sustainability, choose eco-friendly items like reusable water bottles or bamboo pens.
It’s also helpful to consider seasonal or trending items. Branded umbrellas might be perfect for a rainy season, while insulated drinkware is great for the colder months. Matching your merch to your brand and current trends helps it to feel relevant and cohesive.
Budget and scalability
Merch can be a powerful investment, but it’s important to start within your means. Begin with high-impact items that are affordable yet effective, such as branded pens or tote bags. Test how they are received by your audience before scaling up to more premium products like clothing or tech accessories.
As your business grows, you can expand your merch to include more diverse and high-quality items. Balancing cost with quality is important, as cheap-looking merchandise can harm your brand’s reputation, while well-made products will reflect positively on your business.
Source: Water bottles are a popular form of branded merchandise via VistaPrint.
Boost your business with branded merch
Choosing the right merch can amplify your brand, please your customers and drive your business forward. From clothing to tech and everything in between, there’s a type of merch for every audience and occasion.
FAQs about merch
What is the most popular type of merch?
The most popular merch items are branded apparel like T-shirts and tech accessories such as phone cases or USB drives. T-shirts are versatile and wearable, making them perfect for spreading your brand’s message. Tech accessories are practical and appeal to today’s digital-first audiences, ensuring that your merch is useful and memorable.
What are the 4 types of merchandise?
Merchandise is commonly categorized into four types:
- Convenience goods, which includes everyday items like pens, tote bags and water bottles that customers use frequently.
- Impulse goods, covering small, eye-catching items like keychains or magnets that customers often pick up spontaneously.
- Shopping products, which are thoughtfully designed items like branded apparel or tech accessories that are selected with care.
- Specialty goods are high-quality, unique products like custom candles or premium notebooks that represent exclusivity and value.
What is considered merch?
Merch refers to branded products designed to promote your business or organization. It includes items like clothing, drinkware, office supplies and even digital products. Anything that carries your brand and helps build recognition can be considered merch.
What is the best way to design effective merch?
Effective merch design starts with understanding your audience. Ask yourself: What would they use? What design elements resonate with them? Simplicity is key. Keep the layout clean and avoid overcrowding with too many details. For professional help, consult with our merch design experts at 99designs by Vista.
How can merch help grow my business?
Merch is a powerful tool for building brand awareness and building customer loyalty. When customers use or wear your branded merchandise, they become ambassadors for your business, spreading your message to a wider audience. High-quality merch also adds a personal touch, making your customers feel valued and connected to your brand.
