How to Promote a Business With Promotional Items: A List of Ideas
Author: Sarah Roberts
Standing out and being noticed in today’s highly competitive market is tricky, which is why knowing how to promote a business in a way that’s both effective and efficient is crucial—and that’s where our ideas come in!
Promotional or customised items hold lots of power, and there are tons of ways they can be used to both entice new customers or clients and strengthen your relationship with existing ones.
From social media giveaways and exclusive loyalty gifts to trade show freebies and conference merchandise, the possibilities are virtually endless.
We’ve created a list of ideas that you can use or take inspiration from and start promoting your business effectively, creatively, and affordably.
Our List of Ways to Promote Your Business With Promo Items
Our list of ideas includes everything from quick and simple giveaways to more targeted and strategic approaches, so there’s guaranteed to be something that will work for your business.
Choose from a variety of customisation options, including Screen Printing, Laser Engraving, colourways, and more, to ensure your products represent your business perfectly.
Our efficient production process ensures fast turnaround times, so you get your items when you need them.
1) Branded Welcome Kits for New Clients
Create a memorable first impression by sending new customers a thoughtfully curated welcome box filled with useful branded items.
Include practical items customised with your logo or brand colours like:
This small but meaningful gesture creates instant goodwill and keeps your brand on their radar. Every time they use these items, they’ll think of your business, building a positive, lasting connection.
It’s a small investment that can leave a big impact on customer loyalty and satisfaction.
2) Referral Rewards with a Tangible Twist
Encourage customer referrals by offering premium branded products—like wireless chargers, Bluetooth speakers, or high-quality travel tumblers as a reward.
These items serve as both practical items and desirable incentives, motivating customers to spread the word about your business. Not only does this drive word-of-mouth referrals, but it also ensures your brand stays visible in their daily lives, whether at home, in the office, or on the go.
By choosing products that are both useful and well-designed, you create a positive association with your brand while amplifying your reach.
3) Trade Show Treasure Hunts
At events, hand out branded items like pens, keychains, or stickers that not only promote your logo but also feature QR codes or hidden clues attached to them.
These QR codes can lead participants on a scavenger hunt or provide access to exclusive content, discounts, or a chance to win a prize. Make it fun and interactive to draw in more visitors, create memorable experiences around your booth, and boost excitement about your brand.
This approach not only increases footfall but also encourages deeper engagement with your audience, leaving a lasting impression.Success!
4) Desk Drops for Key Prospects
Target high-value B2B prospects with a surprise desk drop—a small, thoughtful, branded gift sent directly to their office. This personalised approach goes beyond the usual email or cold call, creating a memorable impression.
A selection of branded coasters, stylish notebooks, or practical multi-tools are simple yet impactful choices that can make your brand stand out in a way that isn't possible in a crowded inbox.
These carefully chosen items not only show appreciation but also keep your brand top of mind, fostering a stronger connection with your prospects and increasing the chances of engagement.
5) Subscription Box Collaborations
Partner with subscription box companies to include your branded product in their monthly deliveries. This strategy allows your product to reach a highly targeted and engaged audience who are already excited to try new items.
By aligning with a subscription box that matches your brand values and target market, you can create a memorable first impression that stands out from the crowd and drives curiosity about your offerings.
It’s a clever way to get your brand into the hands of new, relevant audiences while building awareness and loyalty over time.
6) Loyalty Club Freebies
Creating a loyalty scheme where members are rewarded with a free branded product after making a certain number of purchases is a great way to encourage brand loyalty.
This could include items like eco-friendly water bottles, reusable tote bags, or bamboo products—practical, high-quality products that your customers will appreciate. Not only do these items serve as a reward for their loyalty, but they also help reinforce your brand message and increase visibility as customers use them in their daily lives.
A well-designed loyalty program like this encourages repeat business while strengthening your relationship with your most dedicated customers.
7) “Thank You” Gifts for Online Reviews
Online reviews are one of the simplest and most effective ways to build trust with potential customers. They provide social proof that you're a legitimate business, showing others that your product or service is reliable and valued.
To encourage more reviews, consider offering a small but thoughtful branded gift as a token of appreciation—such as a fidget spinner, stylus pen, or pop socket. These fun gifts not only serve as a thank-you but also keep your brand top of mind, as customers will see your logo every time they use the item.
This strategy not only boosts your online presence but also strengthens customer loyalty over time.
8) Social Media Giveaway Bundles
Running competitions on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok is a great way to increase brand awareness and promote your business.
These social platforms are used by millions of people worldwide, making them an ideal space to reach a large audience.
Competitions encourage users to interact with your brand by liking, sharing, or tagging friends in your posts. This boosts engagement and expands your reach as more people share your content.
They also create excitement and build a sense of community around your brand, leaving a positive impression on participants.
Offering your promotional items as prizes keeps your brand in the spotlight and helps customers connect with your business. Keep things simple with some classic branded merch or cosy apparel, or take things up a notch with a full merch pack as a grand prize.
9) Event Swag Bags with Purpose
Promotional freebies are an excellent way to draw in potential customers at trade show events. If you’re sponsoring, hosting, or attending an event, don’t just include throwaways—opt for useful branded items that attendees will actually use!
While items like pens and notebooks are popular choices, opting for something unique can make your brand stand out among the competition. Consider choosing fun, unusual items such as custom-branded puzzles, like our fidget toys, reusable water bottles, or quirky tech gadgets that catch people's attention.
Including your branding on distinctive items ensures your trade show booth and brand remain memorable long after the event is over.
10) ‘Work From Home’ Essentials Kit
As remote work remains a staple for many, why not connect with clients and prospects in a meaningful way by sending them a thoughtful kit of branded home-office items?
Include practical and stylish essentials like webcam covers for privacy, coasters to protect their desks, notebooks for jotting down ideas, and pens they’ll use daily.
These small gestures not only show your brand’s support for their working lifestyle but also keep your company top of mind every day they use these items. It’s a simple yet effective way to build stronger relationships in a virtual world.
We also have a range of Merch Packs that are designed for remote workers and contain all the essentials your clients or employees need to be productive and comfortable working from home.
11) Personalised Milestone Gifts
Celebrate customer anniversaries or key achievements with engraved or personalised promotional items that leave a lasting impression.
Show your appreciation with thoughtful gifts like high-quality metal water bottles featuring their name alongside your logo with our Individual Naming service, or elegant luxury notebooks perfect for work or personal use.
These meaningful gestures not only foster loyalty but also reinforce your brand's commitment to building strong relationships.
12) Eco-Friendly Product Campaigns
Show your brand’s values and commitment to the environment by incorporating sustainable promotional products into your marketing strategy.
Items like bamboo speakers, recycled tote bags, or solar power banks not only promote your business but also demonstrate your dedication to sustainability.
These eco-friendly giveaways are perfect for CSR-focused branding, helping you connect with environmentally conscious customers while making a positive impact on the planet.
13) Seasonal Swag Drops
Send out small, seasonal-themed branded gifts throughout the year to boost brand awareness and keep in touch with your audience.
For example, cosy branded hoodies in winter to keep them warm, stylish hats or visors in summer to shield them from the sun, or a fun branded frisbee in spring to encourage outdoor activities.
These thoughtful, timely gifts not only show you care but also keep your brand top-of-mind all year round, building goodwill and strengthening your connection with customers or clients.
14) Gamified Product Promotions
Gamified product promotions are a creative way to engage your audience and market your small business effectively.
By incorporating games like spin-the-wheel discounts, trivia quizzes, or social media challenges, you can captivate customers and encourage interaction with your brand. Offer enticing rewards, such as exclusive discounts, free custom merchandise, or special deals for winners to boost participation.
These promotions not only create excitement but also help increase brand visibility and foster customer loyalty. Ensure your games are simple, fun, and accessible to maximise engagement and leave a positive impression on your audience.
Invest in Business Promotion With Flashbay
At Flashbay, we offer a wide range of affordable promotional products tailored to suit your business needs. From branded USB drives to custom water bottles and tote bags, our products are designed to help you increase brand awareness without breaking the budget.
With high-quality items and quick turnaround times, we ensure your promotional materials make a lasting impact on your audience. Start showcasing your brand with cost-effective solutions and get a quick quote today!
FAQs
Why Are Giveaways Effective In Marketing?
Marketing giveaways are effective because they provide a tangible, useful item that promotes your brand and builds positive associations. They also have a wide reach, as people often share or use these items in public, exposing your brand to a larger audience.
How Do I Choose the Right Promotional Products for My Business?
When picking promotional products, focus on your audience and what they need. What items would they use every day? Also, think about your brand's values and choose products that reflect them to make a stronger impact.
How Can I Attract Customers to My Business?
Offer appealing promotions, high-quality giveaways, and excellent service to attract customers. Leverage social media and networking to boost visibility, ensuring your marketing aligns with customers' needs and values to build trust and encourage loyalty to your business.
How Can I Start Promoting My Business?
Start promoting your business by creating a strong online presence, leveraging social media, and building a professional website. Use targeted advertisements, offer valuable promotions, and network within your industry to enhance visibility and attract potential customers effectively.
When Will My Promotional Products from Flashbay Be Delivered?
Delivery times for promotional products vary based on the supplier, product availability, and customisation needs. Typically, orders are delivered within 7 days of your order being placed.
For precise timelines, check individual product pages when placing your order.
Author: Sarah Roberts
