13 common myths about promotional gifts – and the truth

Myths are easy to believe, but widely held views often turn out to be misconceptions on closer inspection. The same applies to promotional gifts. In today's competitive world, no industry is spared the fight for attention: companies work hard to expand their market and build loyalty to their brand, and branded products are one of the tools they use for this.

Yet many beliefs and opinions circulate about promotional merchandise. Let us shed some light on the most common misconceptions about what is, in fact, one of the most effective marketing tools – the promotional gift.

The 13 most common myths about promotional gifts

Myth 1: Promotional gifts are ugly

People often think that most promotional products – for example branded clothing such as fleeces, T-shirts and caps – are unattractive and of poor quality. Surprise: they can be very stylish. Companies invest in both design and quality materials because they do not want to disappoint their clients' expectations. A low-quality product will certainly not encourage anyone to come back.

Myth 2: People do not use promotional products

It is often assumed that an item with a logo received as a gift will never be used. That is why it is important to choose a corporate gift that the recipient actually needs and that makes their life easier. A practical item with the company logo, given in recognition of good work, motivates both employees and clients and shows them that they are valued. Make sure, however, that the gift is also useful outside the workplace.

Myth 3: Promotional gifts are not suitable for every occasion

Admittedly, branded products are not the right choice for a birthday present, for example, but their range of uses is still very wide. Quality, on-trend gifts ensure that the recipient remembers you. They are a positive way to show appreciation for your employees and also demonstrate that the company cares about how it is perceived beyond its own circle.

Myth 4: Quality products are expensive

It is quite common for promotional gifts to be seen as overly expensive. In reality, there are plenty of them at very affordable prices. And if a business gift helps you build a good image of your company and long-lasting relationships with both clients and employees, can it really be too expensive? A modest investment in your company's visibility is rarely too costly.

Myth 5: Promotional products are less effective than other marketing activities

In fact, promotional gifts can be one of the most memorable forms of marketing. People may not recognise the company behind an advert or a banner, but they tend to remember the company that gave them something useful. An advert is short-lived, whereas a tangible product keeps reminding the recipient of your company. An effective promotional product attracts attention and increases your company's visibility.

Myth 6: Promotional products do not suit every business

Another widespread misconception is that business gifts are not suitable for every company. The real question is how to find experienced specialists who can help you choose products that fit your company's profile – at a reasonable price.

Myth 7: You cannot tell whether a promotional gift campaign works

It is not difficult at all to track whether your idea works. If you plan to raise awareness of your company with business gifts, start by developing a strategy. Feedback from a campaign that includes, for example, gift cards or discount codes will show you how successful it was – and over time, a better brand awareness is the result you are looking for.

Myth 8: Promotional products are pointless during an economic downturn

One of the biggest misunderstandings is that promotional gifts are not worth giving during an economic crisis. In difficult times, a well-chosen promotional product can be a cost-effective way to stay in touch with clients and employees, especially compared with many forms of traditional advertising.

Myth 9: Cheaper products are better

You may prefer promotional products that do not cost much, but cheap trinkets rarely deliver long-term results with either clients or employees. Recipients quickly throw away useless, low-quality items. If, on the other hand, the gift is valuable and useful, it is kept for a long time.

Myth 10: All promotional gift companies are the same

This is generally not true. Companies differ both in their profile and in the corporate gifts they offer. Promotional products also differ in quality, quantity and price, and the product range matters too. Some suppliers focus on eco-friendly products and sustainable promotional products, others mainly supply technology, and others specialise in corporate textiles or homeware.

Myth 11: Promotional products are not durable

We recommend investing in long-lasting corporate gifts made of quality materials to present your company and its offering successfully. There are many products that stand the test of time, such as bags, books, clothing and drinking bottles.

Myth 12: Promotional products bring no benefit at all

How could anyone assume that promotional gifts do not make your company more visible or add positivity to your brand image? When you hand out branded gifts to your clients and give them to your employees, you strengthen brand loyalty, and people are less likely to turn away from you.

Myth 13: Promotional gifts make no impression

In reality, every product creates an impression – positive or negative. If the promotional product you give is of high quality and people need it, it binds them more closely to your company, and they are much more likely to continue working with you by buying your products or using your services. The more attention you pay to quality, trends and design, the more effective promotional products will be for you. A neat finish such as embroidery on branded clothing helps too.

We hope this article has given you useful knowledge and the confidence to use promotional gifts more often – and more purposefully – in your marketing campaigns.

Logotrade is a member of the international promotional products networks PSI and ASI and of the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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