Top Trade Show Promo Items That Pack a Punch at Events

Trade shows offer a fantastic opportunity for businesses to showcase their products, connect with potential customers, and generate valuable leads. One key aspect of these events is the selection of trade show promo items to give away. 

However, it’s no secret that many businesses fall into the trap of bringing generic items like pens, shirts, socks, and koozies. 

Let’s highlight some unique, branded items that can help your business stand out from the crowd.

Capture the Curiosity of Trade Show Attendees

In a sea of pens and shirts, you must differentiate yourself by offering trade show promo items that are not overly done. The power of uniqueness lies in capturing the attention and curiosity of trade show attendees. By selecting unconventional trade show promo items, you create a memorable experience that can leave a lasting impression on potential customers.

What Promo Items Are Over-Used (Too Popular)?

Are you worried you might bring the wrong trade show promo item to your next event? Don’t want to show up with the same items as everyone else? No problem! We attend dozens of events yearly and keep a running list of all the items we see daily. Here are some of the most over-used promotional merchandise we see (i.e., what you should avoid at your next booth setup if you want to be different!)

Remember that while these are over-used, they are also very popular and trendy in some locations. If you want to join in on the latest trends, you can bring these items (just know that your neighboring booth or competitor might have the same items!)

• Koozies
• Coasters
• Magnets
• Keychains (multi-purpose keychains can help set these apart!)
• Pop-Its and Fidget Spinners
• Chapstick
• Socks (though if yours are unique, these can be a great giveaway!)
• Pens
• Basic plastic water bottles
• Regular (non-reusable) water bottles with custom labels
• Small reusable tote bags
• Free candy in a bowl
• Boring or plain business cards
• Basic trucker hats
• Lanyards
• Microfiber cloths (for cleaning tech items)

Top Tech Gadgets and Accessories

Technology plays a significant role in our lives, making tech gadgets and accessories highly sought-after promo items. Consider branded USB drives, wireless chargers, Bluetooth speakers, or smart home devices. These items are not only practical but also align with the modern and tech-savvy image of your business.

Tech Accessory Kit

You can add your multifamily branding to a tech accessory kit, the perfect giveaway item for prospective clients and customers! Within a small drawstring microfiber pouch are some items that pack a huge punch! This kit includes earbuds with a microphone, a silicone phone wallet with a stand, and a charge-it-up power bank. There’s no excuse for a low battery! Your brand name will go on one location on each item in one color. Anyone who uses this will automatically advertise your company!

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products

With increasing environmental awareness, eco-friendly promo items have gained significant popularity. Show your commitment to sustainability by offering reusable items like stainless steel water bottles, bamboo utensil sets, or eco-friendly tote bags. These items demonstrate your brand’s dedication to reducing waste and resonate with environmentally conscious attendees.

Goofy Group Grow Pot Eco-Planter With Basil Seeds

How adorable and unique are these eco-planters with basil seeds? Now that is a trade show promo item that will leave you (and your customers or clients) smiling! This exclusive Goofy Group™ Grow Pot Eco-Planter With Basil Seeds includes a flower/plot planter with a goofy face on the side. It’s the perfect eco-friendly promo item, designed from renewable materials, including bamboo and corn fiber. Each set comes with a compressed soil wafer and basil seed packet. 

Grow your business by adding your company slogan or trademark with imprinting. For example, if you are a real estate investment company, you can include the messaging “Grow your investments with ABC Company!” Future customers will remember you every time they water their new gift!

Functional and Practical Tools

Trade show attendees appreciate promo items that serve a purpose in their everyday lives. Consider offering functional tools like multitools, power banks, or portable phone stands. These items provide value beyond the trade show, increasing the likelihood of continued brand exposure and usage.

Water Resistant Carabiner Power Bank 2000

Are you looking for a trade show promo item that is a little more cost-effective? We’ve got you covered. This water-resistant carabiner power bank fits the bill (pun intended). If you love spending time outdoors and always have your phone with you, this power bank is perfect for you. Measuring 1.25″ x 1.25″ x 4.38″, this power bank has a 2000 mAh capacity using its UL-listed lithium-ion battery. Clip the bank to your backpack with the carabiner on the cap. With your custom logo printed on the front, this portable power bank is a great tech accessory for customers and clients who enjoy exploring outdoor places.

Unique Food and Beverage Items

Food and beverage items can be a delightful surprise for trade show attendees. Instead of generic mints or candy, think outside the box with branded gourmet snacks, artisan chocolates, or specialty coffee beans. These unique culinary delights create a memorable experience and foster positive associations with your brand.

Silicone Reusable Straw With Carrying Case

How fun are these reusable silicone straws? With Stanley cups trending like crazy right now, offering a flexible, silicone straw is the perfect solution for customers who don’t like the standard hard plastic straws that come with their cups. These straws even come with a carrying case with a custom imprint! Packaging includes the 10″ silicone straw folded inside a round plastic case. Give these away in your next trade show booth and see what a great impact it makes!

Interactive and Novelty Items

Interactive and novelty promo items are perfect for engaging attendees and creating buzz around your booth. Think about branded puzzles, fidget toys, or virtual reality viewers. These items capture attention, promote interactivity, and leave a lasting impression, making your booth an unforgettable experience.

Tangle Junior Puzzle

Being continually engaged with your customers is a definite plus of the Tangle Junior Puzzle! The custom puzzle transforms into endless shapes and is a great stress reliever. Multiple potential imprint areas make this item as unique as you are. This product can remain unimprinted or you can pad print one or every ring. Helping your clients relieve everyday stress with this fun marketing tool means having your brand in their hands daily.

Unique Kitchen Items

Add a little flavor to your trade show promo items! In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of kitchen-related promo items. With people spending more time cooking, baking, and entertaining at home, unique kitchen items can make for fantastic trade show giveaways. Stand out from the crowd by offering branded kitchen accessories that are both practical and eye-catching.

• Wine Stoppers: Wine enthusiasts always appreciate a good wine stopper. Consider offering elegant and branded wine stoppers that preserve the flavor of their favorite wines and serve as a stylish addition to their kitchen or bar area.
• Pizza Cutters: Pizza lovers rejoice! Swap traditional promo items for custom-branded pizza cutters. These handy tools are useful for slicing through their favorite pies and offer a unique branding opportunity that will leave a lasting impression.
• Ice Packs or Ice Makers: Help trade show attendees keep their beverages cool with branded ice packs and ice makers. These compact and practical items can be used for chilling drinks on the go, making them a refreshing and highly useful promo item for summer trade shows or outdoor events.
• Utensil Sets: Elevate your promo game by offering unique utensil sets. Consider branded sets of bamboo cooking utensils, stainless steel barbecue toolkits, or eco-friendly silicone kitchen utensils. Home cooks and grill masters alike will appreciate these high-quality and durable sets.
• Cutting Boards: A branded cutting board can add style and functionality to any kitchen. Whether it’s a sleek bamboo cutting board or a flexible and space-saving silicone cutting mat, these items offer a versatile branding opportunity and showcase your commitment to quality.
• Kitchen Gadgets: Think beyond the ordinary and consider offering unique kitchen gadgets that make cooking and food preparation easier. Branded garlic presses, avocado slicers, citrus sprayers, or herb scissors are all examples of practical and attention-grabbing promo items that culinary enthusiasts will appreciate.

By incorporating these unique kitchen items into your trade show promo strategy, you can tap into the growing home cooking trend and create a memorable experience for attendees. These functional and visually appealing items reinforce your brand and provide trade show visitors with useful tools they will enjoy using in their everyday lives.

Invest in Trade Show Promo Items That Leave a Lasting Impact

In the ever-evolving world of trade shows, staying ahead of the curve is crucial by selecting promo items. Ditch the generic pens, shirts, and socks and opt for unique, branded items that leave a lasting impact. By embracing trends such as tech gadgets, eco-friendly products, functional tools, unique food and beverage items, interactive novelties, and personalized items, you can captivate trade show attendees and make your brand stand out from the competition. 

Remember, the key to success lies in offering something memorable, useful, and aligned with your brand’s values and identity.

Did you like any of the trade show promo items listed above? Interested in unique items for your next conference but unsure where to start? Want something else that is similar but at a different price point? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today to get the process started: (214) 761-1900 or email swag@criterionb.com

The Power of Promotional Products at Trade Shows

Trade shows can be an excellent way to promote your business, but the costs associated with attending them can add up quickly. From registration fees to booth rental and travel expenses, it’s no secret that trade shows can be expensive. However, one of the most effective ways to attract visitors to your booth and make a lasting impression is by using trade show promo items. 

But what do you do if you’re on a budget? Here are some tips to get the most impact on your money regarding promo items for trade shows.

1. Set a Budget

Setting a budget is the first step in maximizing your trade show promo item impact. Determine how much you can spend on promo items and plan how to allocate that budget. Remember, your promo items are just one piece of your overall trade show budget, so consider that.

2. Choose High-Impact Items

Once you have your budget, it’s time to decide which trade show promotional products will most impact your money. High-impact items include custom tote bags, reusable water bottles, and branded phone chargers. These items are not only useful for attendees but also have a longer lifespan than something like a flyer or brochure.

3. Look for Discounts and Special Offers

Another way to stretch your trade show promo item budget is to look for discounts and special offers. Many companies offer discounts for bulk orders or promotions around specific holidays or events. Watch for these deals and take advantage of them when they’re available.

4. Get Creative with Your Design

If you’re working with a limited budget, getting creative with your design can make a big difference. Consider using a simple, eye-catching design or a bold color scheme to make your promo items stand out. Remember, the goal is to make a lasting impression; a creative design can help you.

You can also get creative with your booth design to make your setup stand out. Don’t forget to take any trade show promo items out of the plastic bags and place them nicely and clearly on your tables for the best results.

5. Use Social Media to Your Advantage

Finally, consider using social media to your advantage when it comes to trade show promotional products. Encourage attendees to take photos with your promo items and share them on social media using a branded hashtag. This helps you spread the word about your business and provides valuable user-generated content.

Maximizing the Impact of Your Trade Show Presence

Trade show promo items don’t have to break the bank. With a budget and creative design, you can get the most impact for your money on promo items for trade shows. Remember, the goal is to make a lasting impression on attendees, and with the right promo items, you can do just that.

Ready to shop for the latest trade show promo items and branded swag? Contact us or visit our designated promo items website to browse options. Let our team know if we can help customize the perfect promo items for trade shows and events just for your business!

A Look Back at the Most Popular Swag Items and What’s Trending

Whether you want to increase brand awareness, reward your team, or make a good impression with clients, promotional items are a great way to achieve all three goals. 

In 2023 and beyond, promotional items such as custom-branded bags, t-shirts, pens, mugs, tumblers, water bottles, and hats will remain popular for companies of all sizes. 

And to understand what will be popular this year, we need to look at the top-trending promo items from last year. We researched all the swag items that were most ordered in 2022 by our clients and researched them based on the most popular items in the multifamily market. 

Let’s take a look…

1. BEST Coolie – Branded Beverage Holder

Easily the most popular and most-ordered promo item this year was the BEST Coolie. Made from premium quality 1/8″ thick, open-cell Econo foam, this coolie is available in an assortment of stylish colors and provides great insulation, and absorbs condensation. 

It can be customized with an imprinted apartment logo, company name, event title, or any information you want to convey. A second side and bottom imprint are also offered. The Coolie keeps drinks cold in summer and hands warm and dry in winter.

2. Ellipse Softy With Stylus Pens 

Pens are not only a cost-effective trade show swag item but also great for taking notes at meetings and events. Pens with your company logo or URL on them are nothing new. You see these pens at every bank and car dealership you’ve visited. But, what is new and popular in recent years is the Stylus pens. 

Ellipse Softy with Stylus pens will continue to make an indelible mark on your customers and supporters this year. These Softy metal pens include a stylus tip, a rubberized barrel design with chrome accents, and a handy pocket clip. You can choose your barrel color and add your logo, emblem, or message through the signature ColorJet imprint to build a cool gift or giveaway for marketing events.

3. Large Non-Woven Grocery Tote

This year’s third-most-popular promo item is grocery totes, specifically this large non-woven reusable grocery bag. You can promote the reuse of this bag and transfer over from using plastic bags to this grocery tote. The 15″ H x 13″ W x 10″ D large bag is constructed of 80 gsm non-woven polypropylene and features reinforced 22″ handles, a 10″ gusset, and a removable board bottom insert. 

It’s ideal for toting groceries home or bringing food to an outdoor event. This is a great giveaway for businesses within any industry. Just customize with a silkscreen imprint to promote your multifamily brand and choose from three assorted colors at no additional charge.

4. Custom Bags, Backpacks, and Duffles

Bags are always popular promotional gifts for customers, and it was by far the most popular promo item this year. Whether it be a backpack or duffle bag with your company logo, bags are sure to leave an impression. 

5. Soft, Designed T-Shirts 

Shirts are also popular promotional items for companies this year. Not only do they make great client gifts, but they can also help team members feel connected to the company. 

We are not talking about those uncomfortable, non-stretchy t-shirts with your logo slapped on them that people inevitably donate to Goodwill. We are discussing the super soft, stretchy shirts with a custom design that your team members, clients, and partners will rave about!

6. Mugs and Tumblers

Mugs are also becoming increasingly popular promotional items this year as companies look for client gifts or mugs to use in-office by their teams. Tumblers, especially name-brand ones like RTIC and Yeti, have become very popular due to their practicality and durability. 

7. Reusable Water Bottles

The “new year, new you” saying also leads to the increased popularity of water bottles. Plus, the glass water bottles’ aesthetic, convenience, and eco-friendly aspects make them popular year-round.

8. Branded Hats and Caps

Lastly, branded baseball caps, beanies, and trucker hats are among our most ordered promotional items yearly, especially for trade show swag. Our clients and customers love to hand these out to their team members and partners and bring these as giveaway items to trade shows and conferences! 

With so many color options, styles, and several places to imprint your logo or design, it’s not surprising that hats are continually a popular promo item choice.

Create a Lasting Impression With Branded Promo Items

For multifamily marketers looking to build brand awareness, promotional products are a great way to spread your message. Not only do they create a lasting impression on potential residents, but they also help you stand out from the competition.

By offering promotional items related to the multifamily brand or community, multifamily marketers can increase visibility with potential leads, build relationships with current tenants, and create lasting connections with new prospects.

Consider these great options if you’re looking for promotional items to give out this year or next. Ready to shop for swag and custom-branded promotional items for your properties or business? You can contact us directly to pull options that best match your needs and goals!

How to Use Branded Swag to Increase Leads and Brand Loyalty

For multifamily marketers looking to build their brand awareness, promotional products are a great way to spread your message. Not only do they create a lasting impression on potential residents, but they also help you stand out from the competition. 

By offering promotional items related to the multifamily brand or community, multifamily marketers can increase visibility with potential leads, build relationships with current tenants, and create lasting connections with new prospects.

Here are 10 ways promotional products can improve your brand awareness:

1. Increase Exposure

Promotional products give marketers an effective and affordable way to reach larger audiences. Whether at multifamily trade shows, conferences, or stores, displaying branded items will increase your company’s presence.

Multifamily properties can quickly establish brand recognition in their local community by offering promotional items. These products are often used at events such as open houses or sponsored events — they can market the property while providing useful information about its amenities and services. Prospective residents will be more likely to remember an apartment complex when they have something tangible to take home that represents the multifamily brand.

2. Raise Multifamily Brand Recognition

Promotional products make it easy for people to recognize and remember your multifamily brand. It’s also much easier for someone to recall a product that was given as opposed to what they read in an advertisement.

3. Create Brand Loyalty

Swag is also a great way to show appreciation. Promotional products can reward existing residents for their loyalty and encourage them to continue leasing at your property. This creates a sense of trust with your audience and makes them feel valued by your company.

By providing residents with branded items such as t-shirts, water bottles, or mugs, multifamily marketers can increase resident loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals for their community.

4. Convey Your Marketing Message

Branding items with your apartment logo, slogan, or other visuals help marketers communicate their message quickly and efficiently. People will also be able to recognize your brand when they see it again elsewhere instantly.

5. Make a Lasting Impression

Placing promotional items at trade shows or in your leasing office allows marketers to stand out from the competition and make a lasting impression on potential residents. It’s also a great way to differentiate yourself from other multifamily brands.

6. Generate Interest in the Brand

Marketers giving away branded products can generate interest and curiosity in their brand. Renters may be more likely to research your property or look up your product if they have something tangible related to it.

7. Encourage Word-of-Mouth Referrals

Swag increases the chances of generating more leases and referrals for an apartment community. Promotional items are a great way to increase visibility and create lasting relationships with prospective and current residents.

By giving people promotional items, marketers can encourage word-of-mouth advertising, one of the most effective forms of apartment marketing available today. People will be more likely to talk about your multifamily brand if they have something tangible that links back to you.

8. Create Connections With Local Businesses

Promotional items can also help communities create connections with local businesses in the area. By distributing swag at sponsored events in the local area, multifamily properties can establish relationships with business owners and start networking opportunities. These partnerships will enhance the property’s visibility and help generate more apartment leads.

9. Stay Top-of-Mind

Since promotional products are always visible, marketers can stay top-of-mind with potential residents. Whenever someone sees the product you gave them, it will bring your brand back to the forefront of their mind. 

10. Generate Excitement About the Property

Promotional products can be used to stir up excitement about your property and all its offerings. You can use them as event giveaways or mail them directly to prospective residents and prospects for maximum impact. 

Don’t forget to create a fun gift basket and put it on your social media for a giveaway! This way, you can generate new social media followers while drumming up more excitement for your property.

The Power of Promotional Products in Your Multifamily Marketing

Using promotional products is a great way for marketers to increase their brand awareness and differentiate themselves from the competition. Whether it’s increasing exposure, creating loyalty or generating interest, promotional products can make a difference in your multifamily marketing efforts. By leveraging the power of promotional products, marketers can reach larger audiences and create a lasting impression on potential customers.

The key is finding the right promotional item representing your multifamily property and its services. With various options available on the market, you can choose items that fit your multifamily brand and match your marketing goals. 

For example, if you are aiming to increase brand loyalty, look for t-shirts or mugs with your apartment logo on it. Alternatively, if you want to network with local businesses, look for items like pens, notebooks, or notepads with your logo. You can increase apartment leads and word-of-mouth referrals by choosing the right promotional item that best represents your community.

Ready to shop for swag and custom-branded promotional items for your properties or business? You can browse our promo items site or contact us directly to pull options that best match your needs and goals!

With the holidays fast approaching, you are likely scouring the web for corporate gift ideas that impress your hard-to-shop-for clients, coworkers, bosses, business associates, and prospective partners.

According to Fortune, more than 75% of businesses plan to send gifts to their clients and employees this year. Additionally, 57% of respondents in a different survey said “gifts can impact their opinion of a business partner both positively and negatively,” according to Business Gift Satisfaction Survey.

However, deciding on the perfect holiday gift is no easy task — especially in the workplace. Your gift needs to be appropriate, practical, and personal. Most importantly, the item must be within budget but still high-quality.

We put together the ultimate holiday gift guide, filled with the perfect corporate gift ideas for every price point:

Rangeley Gourmet Snack Pack Cooler

Forget tossable gift baskets. Give the gift of a reusable, personalized cooler instead! The Rangeley Box Cooler is filled with various sweet and savory snacks. Treats include chocolate chip cookies, smoked almonds, cheddar cheese straws, caramel popcorn, and more.

Stainless Steel Water Bottles

What’s one thing nearly everyone in the office does daily? Most likely, they drink water or coffee. This year, consider giving a corporate gift people want: a 20-ounce stainless steel water bottle. These bottles feature a Tritan plastic screw-on cap and double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks hot or cold for hours. As a bonus, the bottle’s exterior is customizable should you add your logo for extra brand exposure.

Heritage Supply Highline Tote Gourmet Gift Set

Gourmet snacks are always good, especially in a personalized, modern tote bag. Also included in this sleek gift set is a leather writing pad, retractable pen, and coordinating leatherette desktop box filled with tasty snacks. From raspberry honey mustard dip and pretzel twists to shortbread and almond tea cookies, there is a delectable snack for everyone. Customize the items with an imprint of your choice to add an even more personal touch!

Speckle Ceramic Campfire Mugs

Everyone loves coffee, hot cocoa, or warm tea, so why not give your team or clients a gift they can use year-round? These nine-ounce mugs feature a glazed speckle design with a black rim. With eight colors to choose from and the ability to imprint them with your name or logo, these mugs will make your brand more visible. Pair them with a package of gourmet coffee or a jar of hot cocoa mix, and you have the perfect corporate gift.

Bamboo Cheese Board With Knife Set in a Hidden Drawer

This bamboo cheese board will delight and impress your clients, especially if you pair it with a seasonal wine and delicious cheese spread. The deluxe Malvern cheese board set features a cracker serving tray around the entire board, plus a hidden drawer that stores four stainless steel tools. To complete the look, personalize the board with your name, logo, or slogan.

Stemless Wine Glasses

Whether you are trying to impress a new client or capture the attention of a prospective partner, these stemless wine glasses are sure to please the masses. Each glass holds up to 16 ounces and comes in several color options. Complete the look with custom imprinting and your favorite grape variety. To step it up, complement it with a mix of fruit and cheeses from your local market.

Micro-Mink Plaid Sherpa Blanket

Give the gift of actually being warm in the office for once. We all know it gets chilly in the workplace, regardless of the temperature outdoors. These micro-mink sherpa blankets are the perfect corporate gift for any office size, not to mention one people will use. Each blanket is 50 inches by 60 inches and has a faux micro-mink on one side and lambswool sherpa on the other. If your budget allows, pair these blankets with ceramic campfire coffee mugs for an even cozier holiday gift.

Coffee & Cookie Basket With Himalayan Tumbler

The holidays aren’t complete without coffee and cookies. This year, offer your clients and coworkers a gift basket filled with treats for the entire office to share. The basket includes fresh ground Colombian beans, a 20-ounce Himalayan tumbler, Noble Knight almond tea cookies, chocolate chunk cookies, and cool peppermint puffs. Each basket is cello wrapped and tied with a personalized ribbon with your logo.

Popcorn Tin With Trio of Butter, Cheddar, and Caramel Popcorn

This gift is almost guaranteed to make your business “pop.” Each popcorn tin features 3.5 gallons of freshly popped butter, cheddar, and caramel popcorn. Each tin is fully customizable and reusable!

Custom Imprinted Chocolate Truffles

Looking for something Kosher? We’ve got you covered. Whether you are searching for a great corporate office gift or a fun holiday giveaway, these custom-imprinted chocolate truffles are sure to impress. Give the gift of premium-themed Belgian milk or dark chocolate truffles with a custom edible imprint. Choose between a 10-, 16-, or 32-piece set, depending on the office size — or appetite!

Deluxe Charcuterie Gourmet Meat & Cheese Set

Mouth-watering dry-cured salami, crackers, assorted cheeses, and gourmet mustards. Need we say more? This delectable set comes in a gift box with a customizable lid to showcase your branding.

Callaway Golf Gift Card

For the busy working professional or hard-to-shop-for boss, give the gift of golfing. Consider these customizable gift cards if snacks, holiday treats, and promotional items aren’t your gifting style. Purchase a Callaway Golf gift card and let your customers or coworkers choose from various golf products.

Don’t see what you are looking for? Browse our swag website for promotional products, holiday gift ideas, and the latest in-office gadgets.