Top Promotional Products Article (Refresh)

Looking for ways to boost brand awareness and connect with your audience? Promotional products are more powerful than ever in 2025. 

Our latest survey reveals how the best promotional products influence consumer perception and drive future behavior. These tangible items are more than just giveaways—they become part of your customers’ daily routines, offering consistent brand exposure. For small businesses, they’re a cost-effective marketing tool that builds goodwill with both new and existing customers. 

Discover the top promotional products of 2025 to see how promotional product trends can maximize your marketing impact.

Key takeaways

• Promotional products are more effective than ever, with 83% of consumers using the branded items they receive, and 58% reporting a positive change in their perception of a brand.
• The most popular promotional products in 2025 are practical, everyday items like pens, tote bags and T-shirts that continue to resonate with consumers.
• Consumers want unique and useful swag, with 80% prioritizing practicality and 41% looking for something unique in promotional products.
• Workplaces and trade shows remain the top places to distribute branded products, with 34% of consumers receiving swag from their place of work.

 

Top promotional product trends in 2025

Promotional products are delivering real results. Our latest survey shows that 83% of consumers actively use the branded items they receive, and 58% say receiving one positively changed their perception of a brand. These findings highlight how effective promotional products are at boosting brand recall, influencing behavior and building loyalty.

We surveyed 1,000 consumers in the United States, reflecting the general consumer population. This diverse sample provides valuable insights into how different generations engage with promotional products, helping businesses make smarter, data-driven choices.

Check out the key insights from our survey to discover the 2025 promotional product trends that will help you select the best promotional products for your business.

People love using promotional products (even more than last year!)

Great news for businesses—promotional products are getting the attention they deserve. In 2025, 83% of consumers are actively using the branded items they receive, up from just 54% in 2024. 

As companies shift toward useful items that have everyday purposes—like reusable water bottles, wireless headphones or high-quality phone accessories—fewer branded trinkets end up forgotten. Plus, with more people working from different locations, branded tools that help with organization or comfort have found their way into regular use at home offices and shared workspaces. So, whether it’s pens, tote bags or any other branded merchandise, rest assured these items are actually being put to work, not forgotten in a drawer.

Even better, 58% of consumers now say they remember your brand after receiving a promotional product, a significant nine-point increase from 2024. This means that every piece of swag you give away helps you create lasting brand recall and keep your business at the forefront of the consumers’ minds.

Promotional products drive real results

Beyond just being remembered, promotional products actually impact consumer behavior. After receiving branded swag, 40% of consumers are more likely to revisit your business and 39% say they’d shop with you again. 

What’s even more powerful is the way these products influence consumer perception: 58% of respondents said receiving a promotional product positively changed how they view a brand. That’s a powerful shift in sentiment from a single branded item; the right branded merchandise can turn your customers into brand advocates! 

Finally, 44% of consumers find promotional products to be more memorable than traditional advertising, showing that tangible items leave a stronger mark than digital or print ads.

Practical promotional product ideas are user favorites 

Although promotional products are more popular than ever, some items stand out more than others. Our survey shows that usefulness is the number one priority for consumers. A massive 80% of respondents, up from 53% in 2024, said practicality is their top priority when evaluating swag.

The classics—pens, T-shirts and tote bags—are still leading the pack. Pens, in particular, are the most-used promotional product, with 55% of consumers regularly reaching for them. T-shirts (26%) and tote bags (25%) continue to be favorites as well. 

But practicality doesn’t have to mean dull. While consumers want items they’ll actually use, 41% also want them to be unique, appreciating unique company swag ideas.

This balance of function and flair offers businesses a chance to create promotional products that serve a purpose and stand out. So, when selecting the top promotional products, remember: practical and unique is the winning combo.

Your branded swag speaks volumes about your business

Uniqueness in promotional products often shows up in the design. Consumers are increasingly drawn to promotional items that aren’t just useful but also visually appealing. Our 2025 survey found that 60% of consumers prioritize products with eye-catching designs, an 11 percentage point increase from 2024. This trend holds true across genders, with women (61%) and men (59%) attracted to items that pop.

But it’s more than just the visual appeal that matters. A thoughtful selection of promotional products shows how well a brand understands its audience’s needs, wants and current trends. In fact, the study reveals that 31% of consumers believe the right products reflect a brand’s knowledge of its customers.

So, before you order those branded pens or tote bags, ask yourself: What message does your choice send about your business? If you want your branded swag to truly speak volumes, check out our guide on how to make merch to get it just right.

Logos, taglines and thoughtful branding make all the difference

When it comes to branding on promotional products, the details matter: 25% of respondents prefer items with a logo and tagline, while 24% favor a clearly visible brand name and 20% prefer just the logo.

Generation-specific preferences also stand out. Boomers (25%) and Millennials (26%) lean toward products with a clear brand name, while Gen X (25%) and Millennials (28%) are more drawn to logos with taglines. Gen Z (24%) favors a logo-only design.

Different strokes for different folks

Our 2025 promotional product trends reveal even preferences along gender and generational lines. Women show a particular fondness for tote bags (53%) and pens (54%), while men gravitate toward T-shirts (50%) and mugs (39%). This insight can be marketing gold if your business caters to a specific gender.

Gen Z is leading the way for apparel-based swag, with 41% preferring hoodies, by far the highest of any generation. They’re also the most likely to keep promotional products because they feel unique or personal (39%). In contrast, Boomers and Gen X tend to stick with practical classics like pens and calendars. 

Distribution still happens where people work and network

Wondering where to distribute your branded swag for maximum impact? Our survey reveals that the workplace remains the top spot for promotional products, with 34% of respondents naming it as their main source. Trade shows (27%), sports events (24%) and venue openings (24%) also continue to be key distribution channels.

But when do consumers actually want to receive promotional products? The majority (67%) prefer getting them year-round, making it clear that consistent engagement is key. 

However, some consumers have seasonal preferences: 9% prefer receiving products in the spring, 7% in the summer and 4% around major holidays. 

Consumers are buying promotional products themselves

Promotional products aren’t just for giveaways—they’re also something consumers want to buy. In our survey, 71% of respondents said they’d purchase a product they like and will use, while 43% would buy to support the business. 

The 50 best promotional products

When it comes to the top promotional product ideas in 2025, the key to success lies in choosing items that are not only practical but also aligned with your brand values and the needs of your target audience. According to our latest survey, the most in-demand products are those that serve a purpose and resonate with consumers on a personal level. 

But what is swag that truly moves the needle?

Let’s dive into 50 of the best promotional products for 2025 based on what U.S. consumers say they want to receive from brands, each carefully selected to help businesses connect with their audience and maximize their marketing impact. 

Apparel and accessories

T-shirts: In 2025, T-shirts have replaced pens as the most desired promotional product. With 39% of Gen Z and 28% of Boomers saying they’d love to receive one, a branded tee is a great way to delight your customers and gain visibility wherever they go as a bonus.

Hoodies: The colder-weather counterpart to T-shirts, hoodies serve as both a promotional tool and a statement piece. Gen Z loves them, with 39% preferring branded hoodies, making them a great way to target younger demographics while keeping your brand warm and visible.

Socks: When you’re a kid, they may make disappointing gifts, but adults (especially Gen X and Boomers) seem to love getting socks. So, it’s no surprise socks have become a quirky yet appreciated promotional item. They’re personal, functional and make for a unique giveaway that customers will actually use. 

Caps: Hats and caps are a nice addition to any selection of promotional apparel. They’re the perfect accessory on a sunny day and a great way to get your branding out in the wild.

Beanie hats: If caps aren’t quite up your alley, opt for beanie hats to promote your brand during colder seasons. With 61% of customers who have reported owning a branded hat, but there’s no such thing as too many of them, right? So 15% of respondents claimed they’d like to receive one from a brand.

Sweat bands: Keep your audience cool while they break a sweat. Branded sweat bands might suit brands in the fitness, sports and outdoor industries. 

Tote bags: Just like apparel, totes are a great way to encourage brand awareness because they’ll be on display for potential customers. And they’re a popular item that 42% of survey respondents claim to want to receive, too!

Backpacks: Give your customers a place to carry all their promotional goodies. They can take your branded backpack from the office to the gym or from running errands to soaking in a vacation. 

Sunglasses: If your brand is tied to outdoor activities or sunny destinations, sunglasses are a perfect choice. They’re practical, fashionable and ideal for promotional events in warm, outdoor settings.

Glasses case: A glasses case is an elegant, functional gift. If your brand is connected to the eyewear or fashion industries, or if you simply want to offer a practical giveaway, this item is a solid choice. You can also pair this promotional product idea with branded sunglasses for double the impact! 

Smart tech and gadgets

Flashlight: Light up your branding with a promotional flashlight, which 42% of consumers say they’d love to receive, making it a handy and unique item. Whether it’s at home or on the go, flashlights are a great fit for brands in industries related to safety, adventure or outdoor activities.

USB chargers: In today’s tech-driven world, a branded USB charger is a gift everyone can appreciate. If your customers are in need of a quick charge during travel or at the office, these handy devices are the perfect solution to keep your brand in their hands and minds.

Headphones: Who wouldn’t want a free pair of branded headphones? Great for music lovers, commuters or anyone who enjoys podcasts, headphones are a perfect promotional product for businesses looking to stay in tune with their customers. Plus, they’re a trendy and appealing item for a Gen Z audience.

USB sticks: USB sticks remain a go-to choice for businesses in the tech or corporate sectors. With so many documents and files to store, USB drives are practical, versatile and useful swag items to give away to business partners, clients or trade show attendees. 

Portable speakers: Want your brand to be the life of the party? Portable speakers might work for your business if your brand messaging is fun, joyful and festive. 

Phone covers: Phone covers are an ideal promotional product for brands with stand out logos or creative designs. These items stay in people’s hands and are seen by many, making them a great way to keep your brand front and center.

Laptop or tablet cases: Laptop and tablet cases are an essential product for tech-savvy consumers. Perfect for the office, work from home or on the go, these cases keep devices safe while showcasing your brand in a stylish and useful way.

Laptop stickers: Laptop stickers are especially popular with younger audiences. Gen Z and Millennials love customizing their laptops, so your logo on a sticker could be a hit with these groups, keeping your brand visible in their daily routines.

PopSocket: A PopSocket adds a fun, useful touch to a phone. Popular with a range of ages, PopSockets give your brand visibility in people’s hands as they use their phones throughout the day.

Drinkware

Mugs: So many people start their day with a mug, filled with their morning beverage of choice. It makes sense that they’d like to get a free one! In fact, 39% of consumers say they would love to receive mugs from brands.

Drinking glasses: Let potential customers know that your small business likes to have a good time with a branded pint, wine or shot glass. Though this probably wouldn’t suit more corporate brands, it would be great for some food service companies or for local breweries. 

Water bottles: Stay hydrated and stay visible with branded water bottles. In 2025, water bottles remain a top choice, with 19% of consumers regularly using them. As sustainability grows in importance, reusable water bottles offer a promotional product that’s both practical and eco-friendly.

Drink koozie: Drink koozies are ideal for summer events or outdoor gatherings. They keep drinks cold while providing your business with an excellent opportunity for brand visibility in social situations.

Desk and office accessories

Pens: A classic that’s here to stay—despite becoming less popular than T-shirts, pens are still one of the most used promotional products by U.S. consumers. Practical, portable and easy to distribute, pens are used by 55% of consumers, making them the most universally popular promotional item. Pens are always ready to make an impression whether at trade shows or in the office.

Calendars: Calendars are practical promotional products that stick around all year long. They make a great gift for both the office and home, with 27% of consumers claiming they’d like to get one. A branded calendar ensures that your business stays front and center, month after month.

Coasters: Coasters are an easy, affordable way to promote your brand in any setting. Whether at a home bar, office or restaurant, they offer plenty of space for your logo and are consistently visible during daily use.

Mouse pads: Mouse pads are an item you’re likely to use but not likely to buy for yourself, which could make them an interesting promotional item for remote workers. 

Stress balls: Stress balls are designed to relieve tension, which promotes relaxation and aligns with a brand’s message of health and well-being. 

Tape measure: Consider branded tape measures if your target customer is likely to want one, say, if you’re a skilled trade or construction company. 

Bookmarks: Bookmarks are simple yet effective promotional products for businesses related to education, literature or leisure. Easy to hand out at events, they offer a great way to keep your logo visible in homes, offices and libraries.

Outdoor and travel

Umbrellas: Umbrellas might seem like an unexpected product, but about 32% of our respondents say they’d like to get one from a brand. 

Travel coffee cups: For customers always on the go, travel coffee cups are a lifesaver—and a perfect promotional item. Offering convenience and practicality, these cups are regularly used by commuters, students and professionals. A branded travel mug can turn every sip into a reminder of your business.

Bicycle reflectors: Branded bicycle reflectors are a practical and unique promotional item, especially popular with younger consumers. This is a perfect fit if your brand is outdoor-focused or environmentally conscious

Car stickers: Car stickers are a great way to advertise your brand on the go. Particularly popular with Gen Z, these fun and customizable stickers get your logo seen wherever drivers go.

Hand sanitizers: Help your customers stay germ-free wherever they go with branded hand sanitizers. This small hygiene product is popular with 25% of consumers who said they’d like to get one from a brand.

Lunch boxes: Branded lunch boxes are perfect for consumers who pack their lunch every day. Great for office workers or students, they keep your brand visible and practical for everyday use.

Car air fresheners: Put a new spin on generic car air fresheners by choosing a shape or aroma that’s unique to your brand, like a sweet-smelling air freshener for a bakery or a dog-shaped air freshener for a pet grooming business.

First aid kit: A branded bag or container filled with first aid essentials could appeal to businesses in the health, medical, construction and maintenance industries. 

Food and snacks

Chocolate bars: Call attention to your brand in the most scrumptious way possible—a delicious chocolate bar wrapped in your logo. 

Sweets: Sweeten the deal with branded candy—an irresistible giveaway perfect for pairing with other promotional items at events or handing out at trade shows. Whether gummies or hard candy, branded sweets are always a hit with customers. Gen Z, in particular, shows a strong preference for them, with 39% saying they’d love to receive them as a promotional item. 

Baked goods: Baked goods are a unique and delicious way to connect with your customers. Branding a sweet treat—like cookies, cupcakes or brownies—is a sure way to win over your audience with something personal and memorable.

Home and lifestyle

Tea towels or dish towels: Tea towels are another item where you can showcase an eye-catching logo design or branding. A great option for kitchenware shop or bakeries.

Bottle openers: Bottle openers are a practical and widely appreciated item, especially in social settings. With a cool design or custom engraving, they can turn into a fun and effective promotional product.

Blankets or throws: Promotional blankets and throws are the perfect mix of cozy luxury and lasting visibility. With 36% of respondents eager to receive them, these items are ideal for corporate giveaways or as swag at trade shows. 

Fridge magnets: While 66% of consumers said they already own at least one, fridge magnets remain a relevant promotional product, particularly among Boomers (16%) and Gen X (15%). Overall, 24% of consumers would like to receive a fridge magnet from a brand.

Keyrings: A keyring is a simple but effective promotional product. It’s a great way to get your brand in people’s pockets or on their keys, ensuring daily exposure.

Photo frames: Want your employees or customers to remember a special event? Gift them an event or achievement-specific photo frame. 

Packet of plant seeds: Strengthen your business’s environmental presence and promote your sustainable brand identity with a branded packet of plant seeds. 

DIY tools: Branded DIY tools, like multi-tool pens, are perfect for businesses in the construction, engineering or home improvement sectors. They’re practical and helpful, giving customers something they’ll actually use.

Face masks: Although face masks are no longer a mandatory part of our lives, they are still among the 50 most popular promotional products for brands to use; 9% of consumers would want to get one from a business.

Ready to give away the best promotional products?

As we’ve seen throughout this article, promotional products remain a powerful tool for driving brand engagement and building lasting relationships with consumers. From the rising popularity of practical and unique items to the growing importance of visual design and thoughtful branding, businesses in 2025 have more opportunities than ever to make an impact.

Aligning your promotional product strategy with consumer preferences is key to standing out in a competitive market. By selecting high-quality, useful and on-brand items that resonate with your target audience, you can increase brand recall, influence consumer behavior and foster long-term loyalty.

At VistaPrint, we’re committed to providing businesses with the insights and customizable solutions they need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to hand out branded pens, create unique promotional swag or fine-tune your strategy for maximum impact, we’re here to help you navigate the top promotional product trends for 2025 and beyond.

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Data methodology

This survey was conducted online between Mar. 14 and Mar. 17, 2025, with a representative sample of 1,000 respondents reflective of the general consumer population located in the U.S.