We could have checked the statistics on our 850,000 item database, but instead, we conducted an informal survey asking consumers to name their favorite promotional products. We think that just might be a better way to determine what are the best promotional products, and that’s to hear from people on the street. Here are our results.

Promotional Apparel

Apparel is always the most popular at any event. Make it a t-shirt, hat, sweatshirt, etc. People love to wear apparel because of the causes they support.

Backpacks and Tote Bags

Backpacks and promotional bags are valued by recipients because they have a higher perceived value and are useful products. This can include any kind of tote that can hold popular items like iphones, computers and sports equipment.

Writing Instruments

There are millions of choices in this category. There is a wide variety of items from markers, to pens and pencils, and range inexpensive pens to the nice gift sets, all with your event logo.

Desk Accessories

Desks are crowded and there’s plenty of competition for that piece of real estate. Give someone a useful desk item with your logo and they see it every day! Items like post-it notes, paper clip dispensers, letter openers, pen/pencil holders and more. Use your imagination. Coffee mugs will always be a big desktop item.

Drinkware

Travel mugs, coffee cups, water bottles and tumblers are always effective gifts that a donor will keep and possibly use every day.

Notebooks & Portfolios

Along with a writing instrument, people are always looking for something to keep their notes in and be organized. A great way to keep your nonprofit’s name in front of them every single day.

Magnets

Available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes (the most popular being business card magnets or calendars), promotional magnets clearly display contact information, or date reminders. Consider the picture frame magnets with your brand identity. Since they are typically displayed on a refrigerator or file cabinet, they’re always in plain view.

Computer/Electronic Accessories

USB flash drives, mouse pads, iPad and cell phone holders are highly in demand as items that will be used daily, especially the travel items like portable batteries and chargers for phones and tablets.

Sporting Goods

Sunglasses, golf balls, foam balls, stadium cushions, blankets and umbrellas all are popular items.

Automotive/Tool Accessories

USB flash drives, mouse pads, iPad and cell phone holders are highly in demand as items that will be used daily, especially the travel items like portable batteries and chargers for phones and tablets.

Although this is the top 10, there are still so many options that might be a better fit for you and your target audience. Your choice shouldn’t be based on a popularity contest, but on what best matches your marketing campaign objectives. That’s where we can help. Give APTCO a call.