Top 10 Trends in Promotional Marketing 2018

After attending a few large expos at the start of 2018, we have found our top 10 trends that are sweeping the promotional marketplace. The products listed below are all current best sellers or are set to release in 2018.

1. Tech, Tech, and More Tech

As our obsession with the latest and greatest in technology continues so does the need for products that help us efficiently manage our time. Our industry has utilized new technologies to create products that enhance the capabilities of your device while showing off your branding.

True wireless Bluetooth® earbuds with a matching charging base. Use at home or keep the sleek station on your desk at work. Each base can be screen printed in multiple colors with your logo.

Compact in size, this Bluetooth®, and Amazon® Alexa enabled speaker brings the new age of technology to the promotional space. Screen print your logo in multiple colors on the top of the speaker.

2. Eco-Friendly

Protecting the environment is a full-time job in itself. A few ways our industry is helping to affect change is by producing products that are made from recycled materials, creating more products that are recyclable, and using less harmful dye processes. Below are a few of our favorite eco-friendly products for 2018.

Made with three solar panels, this charger can hold up to 8,000mAh, letting you charge multiple devices to full. Featuring a carabiner, you can attach the charger to a bag or backpack for charging anywhere. Your logo can be debossed on the outside cover.

Constructed with 100% recycled polyester and Fair Trade Sewing, this best selling Patagonia® jacket is not only eco-friendly, but it is also human rights friendly. Each fleece is built to withstand cold temperatures and can be embroidered. You also have the option of sewing on a patch.

3. New Printing Methods

As our technology develops in the world, so do print and laser capabilities. The promotional products sector has always been at the forefront of finding new techniques that will wow your clients or team members. Thanks to the introduction of lasers and modern print processes we can offer more design options.

Using layers of printing, we can create an image that when heated reveals a secret image underneath. Both layers can be printed in full color with your logo or design.

Laser engraving has also evolved giving us the ability to create deeper etchings in materials, making your logo more prominent.

4. Integrated Tech

We have also seen an uptick in technology that has been integrated into other products. These products all perform multiple functions with at least one pertaining to new technologies. Each product in this category creates a way to make our lives work more efficiently.

Stay safe in your car with this three-in-one tool. Each tool contains a window breaker, a seat belt cutter, and a 4000mAh power bank. The functions included will all help you in an emergency situation. Your logo can be screen printed on each unit.

This innovative coffee tumbler allows you to make your coffee anywhere. Using a powerful onboard motor, you can grind your beans and strain them all in one cup. The motor also features two speeds for either a french press or powdered espresso. Each tumbler can be screen printed with your logo in multiple colors.

5. New Drinkware Materials and Silhouettes

Drinkware has always been popular, but the surge in environmental issues has pushed the category forward. Companies and their employees are looking at the carbon footprint non-reusable plastic bottles are creating and want to make a difference.

This difference can be made by using reusable drinkware that is not only eco-friendly but also stylish. You can please even the most fashionable in your company with these new materials and silhouettes.

Thanks to new imprinting techniques we are starting to see new modern takes on classic water bottles. The bottles featured above come in a matte marble, a foiled copper, and a matte woodgrain print. Each of these bottles can be screen printed with your logo in multiple colors.

Glass, bamboo, and silicone combine to make this stylish tumbler. It is a new take on the classic double wall tumbler and makes a perfect welcome gift for your team. Your logo can be screen printed in multiple colors on the silicone portion of the cup. You can also laser engrave the bamboo lid with your logo or initials of the receiver.

6. Heathered Accessories and Clothing

While the technique has always been in fashion, new applications of the classic heathered trend are cropping up. From accessories to office supplies, to home decor, this textured based trendy doesn’t seem to be stopping. Outfit your team or clients with a few of our best sellers.

Made with an ultra-durable heather textured polyester, this smartpack from Timbuk2 is perfect for any commuter. The pack can hold a laptop up to 15” in size is back padded compartment. In the main compartment, there is an internal organizer as well. Your logo can be embroidered or screen printed on the bag.

This trucker hat features a five-panel construction that is perfect for showcasing your logo in multiple ways. Textured with heathered cotton the hat features contrast stitching on the bill and front panel that matches the mesh on the other four panels. Your logo design can be attached using screen printing, embroidery, or a sewn-on patch.

7. Wood

Wood is not just for paper anymore! This trend has seen a steady rise in demand over the past year, and new products are being released in this rustic material every day. Products are also emulating the print and feel of wood but in more durable materials. These products have a smooth finish that may not be achievable with real wood.

A heavy duty polycarbonate is printed in a faux bois finish that creates the look of woodgrain on the UV400 sunglasses. Constructed with a classic style the eyewear provides both UVA and UVB protection. Your logo can be screen printed on the arm of the frames in one color.

Modern styling reigns supreme in this wooden clock. The LED lights display in analog on the front face of the clock. You can also view the current temperature, the calendar, and your alarms. Add up to 3 different alarm settings on the clock. Your logo can be screen printed in multiple colors on the top of each clock.

8. Marble

With modern printing methods that show off the classic Carrara marble look, corporate gifting can look high-end without breaking the bank. A touch of the gray and white marbled print can add class to any product. You can also mix the en-vogue material with other trendy elements for an excellent present.

Chrome-like silver contrasts with the white and grey marble of the pen’s upper barrel. Twist the lower barrel to extend the pen for use. Each pen can either be screen printed in multiple colors or laser engraved.

A polyurethane cover printed in a Carrara marble pattern covers this 90-page notebook. Gray colored ribbon allows you to mark your page, a matching elastic band closure, and pen loop finish off the fashionable styling of this journal. Your logo can either be screen printed in multiple colors or debossed onto the front of the notebook.

9. All-in-One Tool Kits

Building products that satisfy more than one function are one of the promotional products industry’s specialties. We want to give your branded products both value and efficiency whenever possible. The all-in-one tools may also take on the trends within the industry, adding a bit of novelty to the items.

Open bottles and cans when you are out and about with this bottle opener, carabiner, and fidget spinner combination. Adding a bit of fun to the traditional bottle opener this spinning tool can be clipped to a belt or bag using one of the two push-to-open carabiners. Your logo can be screen printed in multiple colors in the middle of the spinner mechanism.

On a bit more serious note, this 6-in-1 pen can convert to a screwdriver with ease. Including a ruler, a level, two screwdriver bits, a ballpoint pen, and a stylus end, this pen has everything you could need while traveling. Your logo can be screen printed in one color on the barrel of the pen.

10. Customized Lawn Games

With the increase in bar patios, outdoor events, and summer festivals, oversized versions of your favorite classic board games have exploded in popularity. The ability to customize these games to represent your brand allows you to bring impressions to consumers and stay top of mind.

Play a traditional game or make up your own with this set of 6 giant dice. Each die has six faces, with one face being your laser engraved logo design. The wood blocks are sanded to be smooth, but can also be stained once you have purchased them if desired.

Win by reaching four in a row on this giant version of fast four. Each board comes with half red and half blue chips, allowing for a two player game. Best when played on a flat surface. Your logo designs can be printed in full color on decals that are affixed to the board at the top and bottom.

We are looking forward to the rest of 2018! Throughout the year we will be bringing even more trends and values your way. Our team can’t wait to see what pops up next in the promotional products world.

If you are interested in any of the products above or want to set up a meeting to learn more, please use the form on our Contact Us page. For more information on all of the services we can provide, please visit the What We Do page.