Top 3 Trends Driving Promotional Products in 2017

2017 will be another interesting year – with the top 3 trends being high tech, high function and high style. Here’s a quick summary of how these trends are showing up in best-selling product categories.

Writing Instruments – Translucent barrels and silver or chrome accents continue to be popular as the hunt for stand-out, stylish pens continues. Multi-function pens with a combination of stylus, multi-color ink options, phone accessories, etc continue to grow in popularity in a variety of industries. Blue ink continues to be requested by financial and legal industries as an additional validation for original documents.                                               (BIC® Anthem Stylus Pen ANTHSTY)

Bags – Bags with a hip, urban style are more popular than ever – both in retail and promotional products. Shopper totes with clean lines, comfortable handles and leather accents are popular and much appreciated as a giveaway as well.

Cotton bags are a favorite among Millenials because it is a lifestyle statement (eco-conscious, natural etc…). Backpacks follow the urban trend — the rucksack look and feel that is even reflected by high end lux brands.                                                                             (Striped Cotton Tote)

Technology – Bluetooth(R) capabilities continue to be requested – speakers, headphones, earbuds. Larger MaH battery power banks are gaining popularity as well, as they can power a number of devices without requiring recharging. Tech items are appreciated by a variety of industry recipients and are perfect for retail – contributing to the continued growth of this category. (myCharge® Razor Plus 31940)

Health/Wellness – Fitness is not just an activity, it’s a lifestyle. Just as athletic wear became more stylish and adapted to street wear, wellness gadgets such as massagers and sound spas are becoming part of a daily ritual of relaxation. It started with adult coloring books to facilitate relaxation and has blossomed into an entirely new category of health/wellness products in the promotional products industry.                                           (Sweaty Bands® Headbands 40131)

Drinkware – Double wall tumblers are continuing to be very popular. Keeping hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold with the latest in vacuum seal technology and smooth, comfortable   drink-through lids are priority features. Interesting style points like rectangular handles and stainless steel with bright color accents are the trend.                       (Bubba® Hero Tumbler 45982)

Visit bicgraphic.com for all the latest products and stay tuned for exciting new products coming in January 2017!

~Margit Fawbush