5 Ways Companies are Using Merch to Promote Their Brand

In almost all industries, company reputation is everything — and that includes how your company looks to customers, vendors, etc. Branded merchandise isn't just for big corporations. In fact, most small/medium businesses rely on custom branded merch to get their foot in the game. With a smart merch strategy, companies are seeing serious returns: better brand visibility, stronger client relationship, and more team pride.

Here are 5 ways that companies are using merchandise to promote their brand and stand out:

1 - Stand Out at Your Next Event with Custom Branded Gear

From fishing tournaments, to trade shows, to industry association meetings — anywhere companies/contractors gather is an opportunity to show off your brand.

• Hand out branded gear people will actually use — like hats, koozies, or shirts
• Match your merch to the event — Fishing tournament? Bring branded coolers, koozies, and performance shirts. Industry meeting? Bring classy hats, embroidered polos, or laptop sleeves.
• Include your logo and contact info so your brand stays on top of mind
• Use merch as a conversation starter to break the ice and build recognition without a hard sell

Pro Tip: Buy extras for your crew too, it shows professionalism and creates a unified front.

2 - Branded Workwear for Office/Jobsites

Custom embroidered or printed workwear – this could be business casual polos, hi-vis vests, or durable FR apparel – instantly making your crew look professional and cohesive.

Not only this but it also:

• Creates brand recognition when your team is out in public
• Builds trust with clients and keeps them aware of what company you are representing
• Acts as mobile advertising, especially when crews are seen driving, walking between jobs, or grabbing lunch.

The Goal: Make people remember you — not the guy with the cheap stress balls

3 - Client Gifts to Leave a Lasting Impression

We've seen customers that are putting together simple, branded kits for their clients to help land a job, or just to say "thank you" after a job is finished.

These often include:

• A branded hat
• A thank-you note
• Company Sticker or Magnet
• Branded water bottle/tumbler

This is an easy way to stand out amongst your competitors and to keep you on top of your client's mind when they have company branded items after the job is done.

You'd be surprised at how many referrals come from something as simple as a free hat.

4 - Onboarding Kits for New Hires

We are seeing more of this as companies are working on providing a positive work culture and to retain talent. Giving a new crew member a branded welcome kit with a hat, shirt, and backpack shows them that they are apart of the team.

This helps build team pride and helps with building a strong company culture.

A strong brand starts from inside out – and that starts with your team.

5 - Rewarding Employees

This is a very simple and effective way to show appreciation for an employees' hard work and dedication. This boosts morale but also strengthens company culture as the employee feel value and recognized; as well as being apart of a team.

Here are some ways that we have seen employers reward their team:

• Rewarding Project Milestones – Meeting or exceeding expectations can be a very good opportunity to reward the team with brand new jackets or hats. This helps reinforce their commitment to quality and teamwork.
• Celebrating Achievements – Providing vests, shirt, backpacks, etc. with the company brand with the special award next to it is a great way to stand out.
• Acknowledging Work Anniversaries & Loyalty – High-quality branded gifts are a great way to show appreciate to your hardworking team.

Conclusion: Build An Unforgettable Brand with Custom Merchandise

As seen, custom-branded merchandise is an incredibly effective way for companies to promote their brand, build visibility, and foster loyalty. When done right, branded merchandise acts as a powerful marketing tool that not only boosts brand awareness but also create lasting impressions.