Stock the company store with products people love to buy

By Laurie Frees

Familiarity bias opens in new window describes how people tend to prefer things simply because they are familiar with them. In other words, when somebody is familiar with a brand, they’re more likely to choose it. More than 75% of people opens in new window prefer to buy a product with a brand name they recognize and more than 70% of Canadians opens in new window are willing to pay more for brands they trust. That means a company store can be a central hub for brand awareness—driving results one item at a time. To get your company branded swag out into the world, it must consist of things people want to buy and will use.

Apparel that appeals to all shoppers

Knowing your employees is key to knowing what apparel they’ll wear. Select branded swag you could see on a teammate who is strolling into the office, running errands or at the gym. A stretch ¼-zip pullover is a versatile top employees can wear all year. Paired with jeans, it’s casual; paired with sweats or leggings, it’s athletic. For more warmth, add a flannel shirt to the inventory. Come casual Friday, employees can comfortably represent your brand at work, then go out for dinner and drinks.

Socks are an everyday essential, so turn up the fun with branded tube socks. They can add a playful touch to any outfit at a conference, trade show or other event. Another favourite everyday item is the baseball cap. Both items make great gifts too. Employees may choose to give one to a family member, for example, so they can proudly represent their loved one’s employer.

Office supplies staff will stock up on

Keep the company store equipped with in-demand office supplies. Employees will appreciate having what they need at the ready, plus these functional items—imprinted with your branding—are sure to make their way into the community. The popular gel pen is bound to be a sought-after writing instrument, especially for employees headed to a big meeting or business trip. Stock debossed executive padfolios so those same employees can show they’re well-prepared for whatever is on the day’s agenda.

A hub desk caddy will be a hit thanks to its organizational capacity. It’s the kind of company branded swag that works at home or in the office. Another small but valuable organizational tool a versatile clip. These are great to use in a cubicle, on the fridge or as part of a gift basket.

Tech accessories to get people plugged into your brand

A durable backpack is ideal for the daily commute or on a once-in-a-lifetime trek up a mountain. Almost anyone will get a charge out of a wireless power bank. It’s a useful tool for charging work essentials and can also save the day when batteries run low during a family outing.

A good pair of headphones can be the secret to getting work done just about anywhere. A set of these will score brand visibility on public transit, plane rides and wherever else employees want to tune in to work (and out of their surroundings). Don’t forget to stock phone grips for every device. Once attached, you’ll be hard pressed to find another piece of branded swag that gets more use.

Drinkware that draws eyes

Wherever your employees go, they’re probably toting drinkware. A large-capacity mug with straw, for instance, can go everywhere. For folks who fuel up on coffee or tea, a ceramic mug is a prized item to keep at work, at home or to give as a gift.

A reusable stainless bottle can help promote healthy hydration and is the perfect thing to stock in your company store. A vacuum wine tumbler makes a great after-work vessel for beverages on the patio or by the pool.

Sell branded swag that gets noticed

Keep your shelves stocked with company branded swag people will want to get their hands on, including apparel they’ll wear, supplies and tech they’ll depend on and drinkware they’ll take everywhere they go. Shoppers will love it. And your brand will too.

Laurie Frees

Laurie Frees is a merchandising category manager at 4imprint who specializes in apparel. With over 25 years of experience in merchandising and product development—plus four years in the promotional products industry—she brings deep expertise in fabric construction and logo application. Laurie manages the product assortment across all apparel categories, including T-shirts, polos, outerwear, dress shirts, sweatshirts and more. Her role includes tracking trends, building supplier partnerships and analyzing data to guide decisions. With a strong focus on products made from sustainable materials, Laurie helps drive innovation in core apparel offerings that customers rely on to showcase their brands.

All marks are the property of 4imprint or their respective owners.

Sources