Benefits of Using Promotional Merchandise & How to Add it to Your Marketing Mix

by Justin Reynolds | Apr 16, 2018 | Brand strategy, Business Resources, Marketing, Marketing Tips

What are the benefits of using branded promotional merchandise? Nowadays, it seems that many marketing strategies are purely social media-driven. No matter who you are in the marketing industry, don’t let anyone tell you that promo products are a thing of the past. Ignoring the power of merchandise would be the most detrimental business move you could make.

In this article, we will explore why promotional merchandise is still relevant to your business and how to implement it in your marketing mix.

BENEFITS OF USING PROMOTIONAL MERCHANDISE

**What can promo products do for your brand?**

It doesn’t matter if you own a motorcycle shop or bake gluten-free pastries; promotional products will help your business thrive. Think of these giveaways as a more useful version of your business card. Craft an eye-catching keychain or a reusable bag with your cute cupcake logo, and you have just created real-life, walking advertisements. This is an effective, affordable way to grow your brand’s exposure.

Using promotional merchandise can help you:

Brand awareness and message recall
Attract clients at events
Grow your email list and clientele base
Increase word-of-mouth referrals
Expand the demand for your services
Measure your ROI
Effectively achieve your revenue goals
Client and employee appreciation

Why are promotional products still relevant in a digital marketing world?

You may be thinking, “This is 2018. No one even writes with pens anymore.” Sure, the world we live in has certainly changed, and technology is one of our biggest consumptions. Nonetheless, everyone loves a free gift, especially if it is useful. This type of advertisement puts your brand in a favorable light. It shows your clients that this is a reciprocal relationship; out of all the businesses out there, you actually care about their happiness.

Do you know how long the average tweet circulates? According to Social Media Specialist, Rebecca Coleman, the answer is “about 15 minutes.” Facebook and Instagram posts? Roughly 24 hours. However, according to the Promotional Products Association (PAA), 76% of people who own promotional merchandise can clearly recall the company who gave them the product, as well as the event in which they received it. To top it off, “Well-designed and useful promotional products are more often than not retained for a year or more, ensuring that your brand remains on display for far longer than would be possible via conventional promotional techniques.”

Do you want your clients to remember your brand for 15 minutes or over a year?

HOW TO IMPLEMENT PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS INTO YOUR MARKETING MIX

“Gifts such as promotional… gadgets and clothing bearing brand logos have been proven to be an instrumental aspect of any effective, balanced marketing strategy.” –Andrew Nash, Promotional Products Expert

What’s your marketing mix?

First off, don’t feel bad if “marketing mix” is a term you haven’t heard in awhile. We all have too many acronyms and terminologies to add to our lives daily. Basically, your marketing mix is a tool combining the four Ps: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. You want to have the right product, at the right price, in the right place, and promote it correctly. As Andre Nash explained in the quote above, the most important component of this “balanced marketing strategy” is the product itself.

The best way to add promotional merchandise to your marketing mix

Do your research and know your target audience. If you aren’t familiar with your buyer persona, get to know them before you make any decisions. Don’t select products to give away because you or your nephew think they’re super cool. What could your ideal client really use? What merchandise would he or she be excited to receive and show off to friends?

The best way to add promotional merchandise to your marketing mix is to get the product right the first time. Make sure you’re ordering quality items. After all, your promo products represent your brand; do you want your company to fall apart after being used twice? In addition, while ensuring that the merchandise represents your company’s key values, try to appeal to your clients’ emotions and ethics. For example, if you aim to target eco-conscious athletes, the last thing you want to distribute is plastic beer mugs.

Your marketing mix will never get better than your promo product selection.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions whatsoever about the benefits of using promotional merchandise, we are here for you. Likewise, if you’re struggling to integrate promo products into your marketing mix, we want to help. Whatever the case may be, our mission at Red Tomato is to assist you in achieving your biggest company goals.

When you work with us, you know that we are invested in your vision and ultimate success. From the first consultation to the day of distribution and beyond, we are there for you every step of the way. We are eager to show you how to make the most of your valuable services.

What do you think the benefits of using promotional merchandise are? How have you implemented promo products into your marketing mix? When did you see the best results? Please let us know in the comments below!

Get in touch with us and start your journey to becoming the best brand possible now!

Innovative Ideas for Event Crowd Engagement

by Justin Reynolds | Mar 12, 2018 | Brand strategy, Business Resources, Events, Marketing, Marketing Tips

“An interesting giveaway almost always guarantees participation.” -Deepa Christina Radh

You’ve done your research and your marketing team has picked out the perfect event merchandise. This is going to be your biggest event yet, and everyone is expecting your ROI to soar. After you think that you’re completely prepared for your day, be sure not to skip one of the key elements to success. Whether you’re representing your company at a trade show, festival, conference, or sports event, crowd engagement can make or break your investment. In this article, we will help you achieve your goals with the most innovative ideas for event crowd engagement.

Make it Personal

No two events are the same, and there is no one-size-fits-all promo merch for different demographics. As QuickTapSurvey points out, “At the center of any activation lives a big idea that must be creative, measurable and relevant… You shouldn’t expect the same activation to be successful across a bunch of different [events]. Personalise your idea based on the personality of the [event] and the needs and tastes of its core audience.”

Promoting your brand at a sports event will obviously draw in a different crowd than an opera concert, and your approach needs to reflect that. You shouldn’t expect that your logo-emblasoned beanies will go over well for both occasions. Also take factors, such as weather and event-based needs, into account. You could pass out blankets in the winter and sunglasses at a summer festival.

Crowd Games

Whether you’re at a travel conference, a marketing tradeshow, or a rugby game, most people love a fun, interactive game. According to research, roughly 90% of event attendees who engage in crowd games will remember the brand that hosted it. That’s quite a favourable percentage. Games in physical and digital form both work well. A trivia game that encourages attendees to engage others ensures that more people will get involved. This translates to increased brand awareness. On the flip side, if you own an app company, take advantage of how often people use their phones. Create a simple game specific to the event. Allow them to unlock rewards- such as promotional merchandise or a coupon code- with each level they pass.

Social Media Engagement

While everyone loves receiving free, useful gifts, you must always keep in mind how to get the most out of your company’s investments. This is where social media comes in, and your strategy should span the event before, during, and after the fact. Create a hashtag specific to your brand and the event. Send out a Facebook blast prior the event, hyping people up with clues to what you’ll offer. During the event, encourage people to tweet, tag your company on Facebook, or share a photo of their new gear on Instagram. Make sure they use the hashtag! After the event, thank everyone, and create a slideshow of the most popular posts.

A great way to motivate people to use your hashtag is to set up a photo booth. Take advantage of the selfie-obsession, and give them a colourful backdrop to pose in front of. Don’t forget to make your logo clearly visible! Another idea is to offer prizes to a few, randomly selected, attendees who have used your hashtag. For example, if you’re at a technology conference, offer a coveted item such as an iPad engraved with your logo. Stick to your budget, but keep in mind that the better the prize, the more engagement you’ll receive.

All in all, the more crowd engagement you inspire, the more your ROI and brand awareness will increase. No matter where you perform your activation, keep it useful, fun, and interactive. Also, don’t forget to utilise the power of social media.

What did you think of these crowd engagement tips for events? What has worked best for your company in the past? Please leave your answers in the comments below!

Are Company Uniforms Necessary? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

by Justin Reynolds | Feb 6, 2018 | Human Resources, Industry Trends, Marketing, Promo Products

You’ve seen them everywhere – the iconic red and yellow Surf Life Saving Cap, the Qantas Air Hostess’ uniform, or a waitstaff’s branded polos. Is it really necessary to have company uniforms?

These company uniforms aren’t just there to make the staff look alike. Work uniforms serve many other useful purposes as well. Here are some of the benefits corporate uniforms have for employees as well as employers.

The employee benefits of having a work uniform

There are many benefits to having a work uniform. First of all, a uniform makes life easier for your staff. They don’t have to think of what to wear to work because they already have their outfits decided. They also don’t have to spend extra money on purchasing clothes just for work.

Employee uniforms don’t have to be ill-fitting or generic. Check out our options for custom fitting using brands like Calvin Klein and Van Heusen.

Having a corporate uniform also makes work easier for your team. Uniforms create a clear distinction between employees and customers, so there will be no confusion. A work uniform will also give your employees authority on anything related to the company, because it is obvious they are staff.

Not only do uniforms make things easier for your staff, they also build team unity. There is a reason sports teams have uniforms. Having similar work uniforms will encourage team unity amongst your employees and promote company pride.

It is also a great way to onboard new staff. Once a new employee joins your company, giving them a work uniform will immediately help them feel like they are part of the team.

Want to learn more about custom uniforms for your company’s specific needs? Get more information from a Red Tomato Uniform Specialist .

The employer benefits of having company uniforms

Company uniforms can bring a lot of benefits to your company in addition to improving work life for your employees. For starters, providing employee uniforms will ensure they will look professional and in-line with the company messaging. You can design exactly how they will represent your company and that is a great advantage.

Additionally, studies show that employees are more conscious of their actions when they are wearing a uniform. Employees know they are directly representing the company when they wear a uniform. It makes them more aware of what they say and do, and how they interact with your customers.

Have an idea but don’t know exactly what to order? Download our free International Uniform sizing chart.

Uniforms also can improve security and protect your workers. Your company knows best the safest clothes and conditions in which staff should perform their jobs. The best way to ensure that they are compliant with safety regulations regarding clothing is if you supply it.

The branding advantages that uniforms provide

In a recent survey, 56% of participants explained that company uniforms were more effective for their branding than online advertising.

Your employees are representative of your company’s brand, so shouldn’t their uniforms be as well? Like we mentioned before, you can design and determine how your staff’s uniforms will look. This gives you space to create a uniform that goes inline with your messaging and tone.

Company uniforms create brand awareness and are another way to promote your brand. The clear visuals on a uniform across an entire staff increases brand recognition.

Ready to learn more about increasing brand awareness through company uniforms? Book a custom fitting session with one of our consultants now!

5 Ways to Activate Your Sponsorship with Promotional Products

by Justin Reynolds | Feb 5, 2018 | Business Resources, Events, Marketing Tips, Promo Products

Choosing to sponsor another company’s event might be the best investment you ever make. Sure, it can be risky if you are on a budget. Nonetheless, teaming up with another business with parallel values can open limitless doors. By sponsoring another company, you will also gain a long-term business partner and source of support. You’ll have the opportunity to meet their demographic in person, allowing you to grow your own brand awareness. It’s a win-win, as long as you activate your sponsorship wisely.

As an Event Manager or a Marketing Coordinator, it’s crucial to understand the purpose of your sponsorship. In this article, we will cover key factors to consider and how promotional products will help you activate your sponsorship.

1. Data Collection

Sponsoring an event and giving away promotional products means gaining access to the other company’s loyal customers. Whether being introduced via paper or in person, this means a much longer email list for you. It also clues you into demographic specifics, helping you assess what markets to target in the future.

2. Drive Potential Clients to Your Website/Social Media

When designing promotional products for the event you will sponsor, include your website and/or social media handle information. Nowadays, most marketing is done online; you want to make sure that people know where to find you after the event has finished. Plus, it’s always a good idea to grow your amount of online followers.

3. Crowd Engagement

One of the best ways to activate your sponsorship is to encourage crowd engagement. Perhaps attendees recognise your logo, but there’s still nothing like making an impact in person. Get to know people, make friends, and leave them with a face behind your company. Another great idea is to organise a contest at the event with a (logoed) grand prize. This is sure to pique attendees’ interest in the sponsor.

As Estelle Delannes stated, “Whether it’s by giving exclusive products or offering cooking classes, engaging with the audience is always key to develop brand awareness… An event sponsorship’s success resides in [its] activation.”

4. Brand Awareness

Brand awareness involves so much more than collecting data, driving potential clients to your website, and giving them a face to associate with your business. All of these factors are crucial, but there is still more that will draw people in. Use your promotional merchandise to convey not only who you are, but also what you believe in.

For example, if you are a sustainable lifestyle company, give away branded reusable bags. Or if you promoting Australian tourism, give away merchandise like this that will automatically remind people of who you are and what you stand for. Many times, this is ultimately what turns a consumer into a loyal client- when your mission aligns with their values.

5. Event Branding to Activate Your Sponsorship

While the above four factors are crucial, using promotional merchandise to achieve your goals just wouldn’t work if the products didn’t speak for themselves. To activate your sponsorship successfully, take time to assess what would appeal to both your established demographic and that of the company you’re sponsoring.

Consider making VIP products that are specifically for the event, and encourage people to share photos of themselves with your merchandise on social media (don’t forget the hashtag!). This will not only remind future clients of the event every time your product is being used, it will also further your social media reach. We suggest giving out wearables such as sweatshirts and beanies, or products that will be used on a daily basis, such as BPA-free water bottles or laptop backpacks.

At Red Tomato, we are here for you every step of the way during your sponsorship. Please let us know if you have any questions whatsoever- from whom to sponsor to how to approach crowd engagement. Send us a message, and let us suggest the right promotional products to help you activate your sponsorship in the most effective way possible.

Red Tomato announced a PPAI Silver Pyramid Award Winner!

by Justin Reynolds | Jan 31, 2018 | Events, Industry Trends, Promo Products

January 31, 2018- Red Tomato is proud to be recently awarded the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) Silver Pyramid Award in Las Vegas. They were named the Silver Pyramid Award for their work with Country Racing Victoria (CRV) Kids Program.

CRV hosts race meets across Victoria to engage race goers in rural locations. The Kids Activity Pack encouraged early registration and helped engage children during and after the event to show winning isn’t everything.

“CRV in conjunction with Red Tomato has created a incredibly strong property with the Kids Summer of Country Racing Backpack. The campaign had an increase of 5% in attendance and 9% in gate revenue. The success of this campaign has established an excellent foundation for the campaign to leverage into the new racing season. On the back of this success, next year’s campaign will be bigger and better with a new and improved kids backpack to be used as a means to incentivise patrons to come to the country races.” Darren Galley – CRV Marketing and Business Development Manager

“Red Tomato is proud to have forged such a strong partnership with Country Racing Victoria. The team here put a lot of time and thought into the selection of products that will help achieve CRV’s outcomes.” Justin Reynolds – Managing Director

The PPAI Awards and Recognition Program celebrates creative excellence throughout the promotional products industry. The awards recognize everything from Distinguished Service and Hall of Fame careers to great websites, outstanding customer service and everything in between.

http://pubs.ppai.org/ppb-newslink/ppai-pyramid-award-celebrates-60-years-of-excellence/

Want help with constructing an award-winning program? CLICK HERE

The team at Red Tomato are here to HELP you too.