The conference ends, the crowds disperse. What’s left behind are discarded, plastic giveaways that litter the now empty floor. Some made it into the garbage can, most didn’t. Eventually, they’ll become trash that will pollute the streets, the beaches, the oceans. And none went home with the customers they were supposed to impress and win over.

Is that the outcome you picture when you decide to participate in a marketing event? Is that the world we want to live in? Hopefully the answer is no!

Let’s face it, promotional products are here to stay. They are an effective marketing tool that has been around for centuries. And people love receiving free stuff. Who doesn’t, right?! In fact, 94% of people say they like receiving promotional products, while the average household owns about 30 promo products.

What gets customers to keep the items though, is quality and utility—75.4% of people kept an item because they found it useful. They like to receive products they can use on a daily basis, and products that are well made and will last a long time. Because on average, customers keep promotional items for up to a year, and sometimes, for more than five!

And if you want customers to choose your company over another, and to repeatedly come back to you, you need to select customized promotional products that reflect your great corporate values and who you truly are—which is awesome, if you ask us! So, instead of gifting plastic, useless items that your customers won’t appreciate and will add to our landfill mess, choose quality and sustainable business gifts that will showcase and uphold the reputation of your company. Believe us, customers notice.

Why Choose Sustainable Promotional Products

Here are some highlights from the 2020 Advertising Specialty Institute Ad Impressions study:

• The Promotional Products Industry found that 72% of consumers believe that the quality of a promotional gift equals the reputation of the company that is gifting the item.
• 46% of consumers have a more favorable opinion of an advertiser if the promo product they received was environmentally friendly.
• 53% of women and people over 55 years old, view brands who choose eco promotional products more favorably, than brands who don't.
• 45% of young people 18-34 also view eco brands more favorably.
• 57% of consumers have a more favorable opinion of an advertiser if the promotional product was Made in the USA.

So, if sustainability is engrained in your brand’s values or if it’s in your mission statement, there is even more reason to be a game changer in today’s saturated market and choose sustainable promotional gifts.

To prep for your next event, we’ve collected 10 of our favorite Sustainable Swag® products from EcoPlum for conferences:

1. The 20.9 oz H2go Manhattan – a versatile bottle that can go anywhere with you. It’s a great size for traveling – throw it in your purse, leave it in your car—it’s small enough to carry and large enough to get you through the day. The double-wall 18/8 stainless steel thermal tumbler has a copper vacuum insulation that will keep your drinks hot or cold, just like you like them. And no plastic lids here; this bottle features a threaded stainless steel insulated lid that is both easy to use and easy to clean. The powder coated finish allows for better handling and lets your logo stand out!

2. Lightweight Organic Jumbo Tote Bag – a jumbo tote bag that can carry it all! Made of 7 oz. cotton canvas with extra-long reinforced handles, this bag is perfect for grocery and shopping trips, picnics, beach days, and everything in between. Not only will your customers appreciate the extra-large size (20" W x 15" H), but the jumbo tote is the ideal backdrop for your logo, tagline and more!

 

3. Bella+Canvas Unisex Made in The USA Jersey T-Shirt – this Bella+Canvas T-Shirt fits like a well-loved favorite! Each top is made with 4.2 oz. of super soft 100% airlume combed and ringspun cotton. The shirt is pre-shrunk for a crisp retail fit, and features unisex sizing, side-seamed construction and a tear-away label. It comes in a plethora of neutral colors to compliment any logo, so customers can feel proud wearing your brand.

 

4. Cork Ballpoint Pen – a writing experience like no other, this SureWrite™ low-lead refill pen will not disappoint. The best part is how sustainable it actually is! The barrel is made from 80% natural cork and 20% paper, while the remaining base pen materials are made with 30% recycled wheat husk. The cork barrel provides a comfortable, soft grip and the writing is smooth and enjoyable.

5. Bamboo Bullet USB 2.0 Flash Drive – this USB flash drive is made of real bamboo, which is a grass that regenerates fast, requires little maintenance to farm and is extremely versatile. A USB is an item that can be used by anyone and is ideal for conferences and other marketing events since it’s small and easy to carry. Plus, every time your customers use it to save their files, they’ll be reminded of your brand!

6. ApPeel Medio Slim – innovation at its finest; paper made from ground apple peels! It’s fantastic to see companies jump out of the box and create new solutions to existing problems—and food waste, deforestation and plastic pollution are major ones! The silky pages in this journal are not only ground-breaking, but also animal friendly, sustainable and all natural. Each notebook contains 160 pages with green lines, gray end pages with colorful stripes, a gold ribbon marker, and a back paper pocket. This is an excellent giveaway for eco-conscious consumers who always have great ideas on their minds!

 

7. Recycled Mouse Mat – a useful and stylish desk accessory you’ll use over and over. The Recycled Mouse Mat® has a soft surface made from recycled polyester and a non-skid rubber back that keeps it from slipping and sliding on your desk. Built-in antimicrobial properties protect the mat from odors and stains that could arise from sweat, spills and use overtime. Each mat can be customized from edge to edge with either an imprint of your brand logo or with available stock art. The possibilities are endless!

8. The Terra – an umbrella as sustainably fierce as its name. This auto-open and foldable umbrella is made with RPET fabric constructed from recycled plastic bottles. It features a 42" arc and a handle also made of recycled plastic. A matching sleeve complements the umbrella and protects it when not in use. The arc surface offers a spacious setting for your brand name, logo or marketing message. With an umbrella like this, no amount of rain can dampen your day!

9. Polarity Solar Power Bank – with an 8000 mAh Grade A lithium polymer battery backup, this power bank is rugged enough for everyday use or for longer outdoor activities that require extra energy. The power bank is efficient and it charges a phone or tablet with powerful dual outputs. It also features a solar-powered panel and a built-in flashlight. The power bank includes a USB to Micro USB connecting cable that charges itself as well as other devices, like an Android smartphone.

 

10. Bellroy Tech Kit – this tech case makes it effortless to organize your tech accessories without tangles. The case is made from recycled woven fabric, and it zips open and lies flat for easy access. The signature stretch-mesh pockets and elastic cable organizers keep everything in place. A magnetic slip pocket can even fit a power bank to keep you charged up on the go. This is a dream for both tech lovers and organization masters!