Promotional gifts (also referred to as swag) are products or items used to promote a business. They typically include the company’s name and/or logo and are given away to clients and potential customers for free. It’s not uncommon for companies to hand out promotional gifts at trade shows, conferences and other networking events. So, how can your business benefit from the use of promotional gifts?

A Look Back at The Origins of Promotional Gifts

Before we go into the benefits of using promotional gifts, let’s firs take a look back at their origins. Historians believe that the first promotional gifts in the U.S. were commemorative buttons used to sway voters opinion in favor of a now-well-known political candidate, George Washington. Of course, these promotional buttons must have helped, because he went on to become the first President of the U.S.

Promotional gifts soon ventured into the commercial world, being used by retail stores, stock brokers, medical product distributors, and practically every other business you can think of. Employers realized that the small investment it took to purchase company-branded gifts was well worth it in the long run. The investment was paid back in the form of higher customer loyalty, better client retention, and ultimately more sales.

Promotional Gifts Help Retain Customers

Arguably, one of the greatest benefits of using promotional gifts is the simple fact that it helps retain customers. If your business relies on strong client relationships, you’ll want to go above and beyond the call of duty to keep your customers happy. Only doing the bare minimum isn’t going to keep them “testing the waters” of your competitors, which could result in the loss of a customer.

You can encourage customers to continue doing business with your company, however, by offering them a promotional gift. Whether it’s a company-branded t-shirt, coffee mug, or even a personalized plaque award, these are just a few gift ideas to consider.

Check out our previous post for more tips on how to retain clients.

Promotional Gifts Improve Brand Recognition

Of course, promotional gifts also work to improve a company’s brand recognition. Your brand is the culmination of everything you’ve done to build your company. This is why it’s important to constantly spread the message about your brand and what your business is all about.

Handing out company-branded promotional gifts to customers and potential clients is an excellent way to boost your brand recognition. Not only will they see your brand, but their friends and family members will likely see it as well.