One question that we’re hearing a lot lately is, “Other than PPE, what kind of products are selling right now?” It’s not surprising since the promotional product industry – along with almost every other business sector – was turned upside down due to COVID-19.
According to PPAI, in addition to PPE-related items, employers will need signage to promote social distancing and healthy practices. Companies will also need promotional items that let people know they are open and show appreciation for essential workers on the front lines.
As more businesses reopen and we all move forward, promotional products can help your clients make a unique impression on existing customers and connect with new buyers. To help you make the biggest impact, we decided to check the numbers and see what promos are most popular right now. Here’s what’s selling in this new market:
#CSSTY BIC® Clic Stic® Stylus Pen
An affordable pen with capacitive screen stylus makes a lot of sense when people are limiting touching surfaces. This top-selling writing instrument is available with 600 possible color combinations and free set-up. You can even get this classic with optional BIC® Easy Glide System® Ink for fluid lines smoother than ballpoint, with no smearing.
A close runner-up in writing instruments? The #CSANTI BIC® PrevaGuard™ Clic Stic® Pen which contains an EPA registered antimicrobial agent that is molded directly into the product. This helps protect the product by suppressing the growth of bacteria, molds, mildew and fungi, especially in high-moisture environments.
Check out this case study to see how a Transportation Company made an impression on customers with the #CSANTI BIC® PrevaGuard™ Clic Stic® Pen during the COVID-19 crisis.
#10027 Lil’ Chizler
One business sector that hasn’t been struggling during Coronavirus is grocery stores and supermarkets. In fact, recent reports show grocery stores in most states had a 20-50% increase in year-over-year sales. (1) That may be why the #10027 Lil’ Chizler made this list. With more people shopping online, grocery stores need new ways to connect with their customers. Plus, with in-store demos and sampling on-hold, giving out this useful promotional item to customers (both in-person AND in delivery bags) is a great way to make a memorable impression.
#15807 KAPSTON® Pierce Backpack
Whether a gift of goodwill for employees who suddenly shifted to working from home or recognizing the efforts of front-line workers; high-quality promotional items are still in-demand right now. The #15807 KAPSTON® Pierce Backpack has modern style and high-functionality at a great price point. This backpack is a great gift option for organizations who want to show appreciation for their workforce or welcome them back to the office after months of separation. The trendy design and color options also appeal to the education/collegiate, business services and retail markets.
#45448 Koozie® britePix® Can Kooler
Even though COVID-19 has limited social interaction, people are still looking to have a good time. Spending more time at home means more time enjoying a backyard barbecue, chilling in the pool, watching movies or having family game night. The #45448 Koozie® britePix® Can Kooler is one of the best beverage accessories, no matter the at-home occasion. The sharp photographic quality and unlimited colors makes this can kooler a favorite for businesses who want to show off their fun side. Plus, these Koozie® can koolers fold flat for direct mail, and are a cost-effective item that adds high-impact to any promotional campaign.
#P3A3A25 BIC® 3″x3″ Adhesive Notepad, 25 Sheet Pad
You can’t get much more useful than a BIC® Sticky Note™ Notepad, but this promotional staple has proven even more useful during Coronavirus. The imprint versatility of this #P3A3A25 BIC® 3″x3″ Adhesive Notepad lends itself to business reopening messages, safety reminders and sanitation checklists. BIC® Sticky Notes™ also make a great add-on for outgoing shipments and direct mail campaigns. Plus, they are always in stock so businesses can get their promotional messages out to their customers with a quick turn around time.
#41024 SPF-15 Lip Balm
After a long spring spent social distancing, people are anxious to get outside as stay-at-home orders are relaxed. That being said, it’s no surprise to see the #41024 SPF-15 Lip Balm on this list. This best-seller is a crowd favorite because it comes in a variety of fun flavors, and a business favorite because of the vivid, full color label that promotes brand messages with style. Great for summer fun promotions or giveaways, and the hospitality, healthcare or fitness vertical markets.
#45624 Grocery Tote
Reusable totes have proven to be useful for more than just shopping during the COVID-19 crisis. More businesses than ever are supplying reusable bags for patrons to keep their belongings together, safe and secure. The #45624 Grocery Tote is a top-seller because it is an affordable option that comes in a wide range of colors to coordinate with any corporate branding.
Check out this case study to see how a University Medical Center promoted safe practices and supported their patients using a reusable tote.
#61985 Evolution Tees 2-3/4″
Golf courses and country clubs are another business sector that was able to remain open and busy throughout the spring, with social distancing measures in place. There is even convincing evidence that moderate sunlight exposure is capable of modulating the immune system and improving health. (2) That may be why the #61985 Evolution Tees are a big seller in this new market! Even though golf events may not be as prevalent this year as before, you can be sure golfers are still taking advantage of enticing spring and summer weather to play a round.
#31790 Business Card Magnet
With more businesses than ever providing no-contact service, delivery and carry-out; we aren’t surprised the #31790 Business Card Magnet is still a hit during Coronavirus. These magnets are the perfect size for promoting a business and keeping important contact information in front of customers in vibrant full color. Plus it is made of 10 mil material with laminate seal for a cost-effective and lasting message. An ideal promotion for service technicians to leave behind (stuck right to the HVAC unit or washer/dryer) or for restaurants to include with every order.
#46058 Double Wall Sport Bottle – 20 oz.
Drinkware has been a popular promotional category over the last few months, as organizations provide workers with their own reusable tumblers and sport bottles to help prevent the spread of germs. At the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, this company connected with employees using promotional drinkware as part of a gift package:
A Case Study for Drinkware During COVID-19
An Oil & Gas company was building employee gift packages that would appeal to their entire workforce during the COVID-19 public health crisis. With employees working both at home and continuing to work in the field, they wanted to provide items that would be useful in a variety of situations.
The company included the #46058 Double Wall Sports Bottle in their gift packages because of features like the easy carry handle and double wall insulation which made it perfect for the home office or for on-the-go. The bottle was available in colors that match their corporate branding, and offered colorful imprint options to show off their logo and a message of positivity during the uncertain time.
Visit the COVID-19 Resource Hub at bicgraphic.com to shop all the promotional products and kits that your clients will want for reopening. Plus, check out all our resources to help your business navigate this new market.
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