Retail sales in the U.S. hit a record $6 trillion in 2018, which is a significant increase from 2009’s record low of $4.06 trillion just 10 years ago. This is good news for the promo industry (and most other industries) because retail sales are an indicator of trends in consumer spending, which drives nearly 70% of economic growth. (1)
Shifts in technology and consumer spending are also changing the retail vertical market. Shoppers will never entirely abandon brick-and-mortar stores, but they are expecting convenient online alternatives and enhancements like order pick-up and item locators. After the 2008 recession, consumer spending changed as shoppers sought deals. Retailers began offering value in the form of better service and convenience along with lower prices. (2)
Stores that understand these shifts will continue to thrive, but it is important for retailers to spread the word about their business while reinforcing their brand reputation. Smart businesses like shopping malls, boutiques, supermarkets and discount retailers will use promotional products to remain top-of-mind when shoppers are making purchasing decisions.
Competitive Advantage
In both brick-and-mortar stores and online, retailers are in fierce competition for shopper dollars. Promotional items that can help retail clients stand out from the crowd are most likely creative, high-quality and useful. Promos with utility like bags, drinkware and writing instruments that have a unique or memorable twist make a great impression with end users. (3)
#55983 Souvenir® Fuse Pen – Make any brand message pop with this fun and funky pen. The unique grip, white barrel, chrome accents and a branded Souvenir® band near the plunger neatly frame the imprint. A perfect writing instruments for brands who want to stand out in style.
#46238 Silipint™ Straight Up Pint Glass – This colorful, versatile pint glass is made of 100% silicone material that will not break, crack, chip, fade or scratch plus insulates both hot and cold beverages. A colorful way to promote school spirit at outdoor events and tailgates without the fear of breakage.
#16061 Koozie® Quilted Kooler Tote -Keep your refreshments chilled in this exclusive tote, complete with trendy quilted accent along the side. Featuring a zippered main compartment, front vertical zipper pocket, adjustable shoulder strap and heat-sealed PEVA liner to keep summer snacks cool with ice packs.
Quality
The retail vertical market is at the top when it comes to sectors that understand the value of substantial promos. Today’s shoppers are looking for well-priced quality and expect retailers to provide promotional items that are a reflection of their brand. This shift means many retail clients may be increasing their budgets to provide higher-quality items that meet end users’ expectations. (4)
#46175 Koozie® Camron Double Wall Tumbler – 18 oz. – A Stainless Steel outer and Tritan® inner wall keep drinks hot or cold for hours. This modern, matte black tumbler has a screw on lid with leak-proof slider opening available in four different colors.
#26163 Peerless Umbrella All In One – This auto-open umbrella is packaged in a color-coordinated nylon tote bag with a hidden zippered compartment specially designed to hold the umbrella while keeping your bag contents dry!
#55944 Souvenir® Tux Pen – This retail-inspired metal pen features a unique tone-on-tone crosshatch pattern to perfectly complement a client’s distinctive brand. The smooth twist-action, InstaGlide® hybrid ink and color-coordinated accents make this a statement writing instrument that is sure to impress.
Reputation
Today’s generation of consumer activists are drawn to brands that stand for something. Offering products that speak to the “social spender” is a way retailers can make an impression on generations that look beyond value items. (5) Brands with issue awareness campaigns and promos that can benefit the causes people care about will appeal to these conscientious consumers.
#32311 Marley Positive Vibrations Bluetooth® Headphones – These Bluetooth® headphones feature a 40mm dynamic driver with aluminum ear cups and a sleek foldable design. Wood and aluminum construction with 10-12 hour play time.
#15940 goingreen™ 5” x 7” Notebook – A popular promo item made of 30% recycled material for environmentally-friendly clients. Includes a spiral cardboard cover and 50 sheets of lined paper.
#32255 Mahogany Wood Phone Case X/XS – A fully protective case made of sustainably sourced Mahogany veneer with a flexible rubber rim on the face. Part of the “Buy One, Plant One” program, one tree is planted for each case purchased. Designed, imprinted and assembled in the USA to be compatible with iPhone X.
#45823 Koozie® Collapsible Eco Can Kooler – The classic Koozie® Can Kooler made with a minimum of 10% post-consumer recycled foam material. Available with britePix imprint to promote your message with a 1-color or full color image.
Find even more items that appeal to shoppers in the retail vertical market at bicgraphic.com.
