Top Markets to Target in 2021

  • Feb 11, 2021

With many lockdown measures still in place, it is safe to assume that many of the shifts and pivots brought forth by the pandemic will remain in place at least for the first part of 2021. This means that while some industries have permanently changed and others begin to evolve, it creates new opportunities for distributors to market and expand their promo product lineup. Moreover, it gives distributors the chance to be the bridge between businesses and their audiences, as promo products can help maintain connections and meaningful relationships. Here’s a look at a few changing markets and some ideas on how to target them.

WFH Forces

With a growing number of employees now taking part in remote work arrangements, promo products now serve as valuable tools for employers to keep team members motivated and engaged. As companies will need everything from branded office products for workers, to welcome kits for new hires, and thank you gifts for employees, it would be beneficial for distributors to suggest products that help target the section of the market working remotely. Product ideas include: notebooks, calculators, drinkware and other supplies that remain on top of their desks.

Event Planners/ Trade Show Organizers

Restrictions on in-person events have significantly affected the way trade shows, fairs, conventions and other networking events will be conducted in 2021. However, all is not lost! Many industries have shifted to virtual events and this creates an opportunity to use promotional products as a way to unify the virtual community while simultaneously advertising a brand. As you assist your customers in re-thinking their marketing around virtual events, suggest that they consider products that work well both online and off. For example, phone accessories, chargers and writing instruments compatible with smart screens can be sent to virtual participants in advance of an event, branded with event hashtags to encourage use on the day of the event and beyond. The sky’s the limit as you help your clients meet their marketing needs!

Non-Profits 

Non-profit organizations operating with limited resources have an added challenge when it comes to finding ways to reach their audience. Branded products provide an inexpensive solution to effectively promote a cause or event without breaking the bank. To generate interest from this section of the market, make sure to include cost-effective options in your line up, such as: key tags, calendars, and small flashlights. These branded items can be given out as freebies to get the public familiarized with the organization and the work they perform. 

Technology 

Companies that continue to innovate and reap the benefits of the increasingly digital marketplace will surely have a more flexible budget to allocate for advertising in 2021. Take advantage of this by introducing new creative ways of imprinting products that could appeal to an industry that is constantly experimenting with new ideas and concepts. An emerging trend is to print QR codes on products like tote bags and caps. Tech-savvy companies will benefit from this trend as it directs their customers to information that can be frequently updated with ease, without affecting the original campaign. 

Although many things remain uncertain about the way we normally conduct business, leaders in the promo product industry continue to find ways to make their products part of the process of getting back to normal.  Promotional products are inexpensive resources useful for keeping employees motivated, they serve as tools to enhance our virtual spaces and can be shipped inexpensively making them ideal for a contact-less promotional campaign.