Promotional Campaigns – The Art of Swag

Corporate swag dates as far back as time itself. Of course there is no way to measure this claim as the passing of time went largely unnoticed before the introduction of promotional calendars. The usage of promotional swag began with the inauguration of George Washington in 1789. Commemorative buttons were distributed to mark the affair. Nowadays, look around any house in North America and you’re bound to find pens, calendars, tote bags, golf shirts, teddy bears, keychains. Yes tchotchkes, swag, promotional items, whatever you call it we’re swimming in it and by all accounts the water is just fine because people love getting free stuff.

Promotional items are a great way to get your company’s brand in to people’s lives. The effects of print or TV advertising last a relatively short time compared to the twelve months that a promo calendar has been hanging in somebody’s room, with your company’s name being seen every day of the 365.

55% of people keep their promotional items for more than a year. The general rule for people keeping their swag is that the more expensive and unique design the swag, the more likely they are to keep it. If you design an ergonomic mouse pad with your company’s name on it, you are giving people an item with benefits. Most people would gladly use an item that is going to give them some benefit.

76% of respondents could recall the advertiser’s name on a promo product that they had received within the past 12 months. Of course they could, they were wearing or using it everyday. A fetching logo design or a catchy custom slogan would greatly improve your chances of brand recognition in situations like this.