2025 Promotional Forecast
It’s never too soon to start planning for the upcoming season, particularly for the promo industry. As Q4 comes to a close, distributors should begin crafting a solid marketing plan for next year that helps them stand out from the competition. Although we don’t have a crystal ball, we do have enough expertise to predict the trends, product categories, and consumer preferences that we expect to dominate the market in 2025. Below is our forecast for the promo industry which will put you in a better position to take advantage of various selling opportunities.
Fashion
First, it was Nalgene, then Hydro Flask, and now Stanley. The “hot drinkware of the moment” trend is not showing any signs of slowing down. Instead, we are predicting that next year the search for the new Stanley will continue as promo products become more and more of a fashion statement for consumers. Social media drinkware aesthetics and consumers’ preferences have transformed promotional water bottles into lifestyle accessories. With a constant stream of innovation, and new options always popping up,- it's only a matter of time before we find the next “it” brand. Distributors should be prepared to indulge in the next big thing and act fast as these trends are constantly fluctuating.
Engagement
Engagement has become a very important part of marketing campaigns and social media strategy. As a distributor, it is important to keep this in mind when adding products to your lineup. When expanding your product offerings in 2025, think about including items that will be used to support online campaigns. In many cases, the physical products serve as vehicles to bring individuals to a virtual space. Instagrammable promo products will be flying off the shelves as clients look for visually appealing products that can be shared on social media. From sustainable apparel with QR codes to cool tech gadgets, the promo you sell should be able to connect like-minded people and encourage social media engagement.
Customization
When it comes to customization trends, it pays to think outside the box when decorating your promo. Make sure to offer customers a variety of imprint methods to personalize apparel, including a number of imprint locations that allow for further customization. While left-chest logos are a classic look that will always be in style, experimenting with logo placement can help them create unique, attention-grabbing promotional products. Encourage them to add a secondary brand element on the back of the neck or “nape” with messaging down shirt sleeves and pant legs for additional brand visibility.
Jumping on trends early, staying on top of industry news, and offering innovative products are only some of the ways you can add value to your clients’ promotional campaigns. Reach out to repeat clients in January to share gifting ideas and product suggestions. Encourage them to choose products as early as possible to lock in prices and ensure sourcing and delivery of their promo.