When people think of swag, conference giveaways immediately come to mind. The promotional products industry unfortunately has become known for cheap give-aways. It is time to flip the script!
So let’s rethink how to use this powerful tool when it comes to conferences. At Ethical Swag, our clients have largely taken a “less is more” approach to conference giveaways. We list a few great examples of products below but let’s first talk about the “why” and the “how” before we jump into the “what”.
We know why we do it - to increase brand awareness and loyalty and ultimately to drive business. The important thing to remember is a product that bears your logo is a reflection of your values and what you stand for - not just with the conference attendees but also with your staff, clients and partners. So we recommend you think about the quality of the product, where it comes from and what it ultimately says about your brand.
Where we think we have got it wrong in our industry in the past is the “how” of promo. We all have experience with ditching the bag of goodies we receive before getting on a plane following a conference. Yes, there are those people who want everything given away - but are they really your customer? What is the impact of seeing your brand in the garbage heap?
Is it really effective to give away thousands of items to reach a small few? Below are examples of how we and our clients have used promotional products to build loyalty, awareness and ultimately sales.
Leverage Technology - Advertising Week is focused on sustainability and they wanted to tell that story with their give-aways. There were plantable seed paper bookmarks (think storytelling/bookmark connection) that had a QR code. This brought you to a landing page that highlighted the work they were doing to minimize their environmental footprint of the event coupled with a sign-up to win a high-quality conference pack.
Create a buzz at the event - have you ever seen a line snaking around the conference floor that has everyone’s attention? Our clients have purchased high quality products and implemented a campaign/line-up to enter to win while there. As people walk by they are asking “What is going on?” with the large line-ups.
Be selective - Keep giveaways behind the scenes and use them to access the right person for follow-up. We had awesome promotional products at a conference (it is our business!) and when someone came up and said, “Hey, can I get a pair of those socks”, we used the opportunity to understand their company, their culture and who was the purchaser of swag within their organization. We wanted a name and email before they received the coveted socks - and they had to make an email intro on the spot.
OK, now it is time to talk about the “what” for giveaways at conferences. You want to think about what story you are telling with your brand. Your objective is to be remembered for all the right reasons.
Ethical Swag has prepared the 10 best conference swag ideas to make your brand stand out in 2024... Ranging from tech gadgets, and wearables to office supplies, we provide a wide range of inspiration for your brand.
The Best Conference Swag Ideas to Make Your Brand the Spotlight:
Tech Gadgets
Technology is used daily by everyone! Usability is a key element we look for in giveaways. The way we flip the script on conference swag is to buy less and be more selective. Screen the recipients, have an enter-to-win or at a minimum ensure you collect their contact information before they can receive anything.
Power banks and wireless charging pads are fantastic products that keep attendees’ devices powered up throughout the event and when they get home. It is one of the most practical items for tech-savvy professionals who need to stay connected and engaged.
Another idea includes portable entertainment. Bluetooth speakers branded with your company logo put you in the middle of the fun. USB flash drives preloaded with contents for attendees are another way to keep your brand front and center.
If these items are not within the budget, we have eco-friendly webcam covers made of wood. This will tell the story that you care about the environment and safety.
Our team at Ethical Swag is here to help you find the perfect tech product for your event. We have products that range in price from under $5 to high-quality giveaways. You can filter on our site to help narrow your search and we are always there for a phone call, chat or email.
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Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainability is what matters to your target audience; this is well established in the research. We have curated products that help tell your story and in many cases, increase your impact with every purchase. That is a story worth telling.
Tumblers made with 100% post-consumer recycled aluminum, the tried and true ceramic coffee mugs that are microwave safe, water bottles sourced from a Certified B Corp where money is donated to charities that support impoverished countries without clean water.
One of our best sellers for recycled “moleskin” type notebook is 100% recycled Apple Peels with a leather touch, We have a wide selection of plants and seeds including plantable seed paper products.
We encourage you to choose products that are made from recycled materials, organic or that have an environmental cause supported through the purchase. You can check out our recycled gel pen and for another low-cost giveaway, consider Certified Organic Lip Balm provided by a Certified B Corp.
This Recycled Cross Body Bag is one of our more popular items.
Among our eco-friendly promo offerings, great ideas include stainless steel straws and bamboo utensil sets. They are durable and reusable. They also come with their own carrying case to keep them tidy and organized. These items foster sustainable practices outside the conference venue by encouraging people to bring their own. By providing products that can be easily carried in your bag, they will be used over time for increased brand recognition while lowering our impact on the environment.
You can check out these bags used for the Shorty Awards. Everybody wanted one, and they were proud to carry them! How often do you see award recipients holding their bags in their photos? They do when it’s Ethical Swag!
These bags are a walking billboard for your brand, will be used over and over again and the brand value you will realize is priceless.
Wearables
Similar to the tote bags we just mentioned, wearable branded merchandise is a walking advertisement for your brand. We have sustainable customized t-shirts, hats, and socks all decorated with your message. Our products have added benefits that range from donations in your name to a homeless shelter of your choice or support for manufacturing in Honduras that is powered by solar energy and additional investment into sustainable communities for the textile workers. And remember, socks are a great giveaway because they generally are one size fits all.
With the UV 400 protective standard, branded sunglasses protect eyes from the sun during outdoor activities while promoting your brand in a fashionable way. Check out these scarves that are made by refugees in the USA of recycled materials.
If you are looking for smaller, more traditional accessories, personalized enamel pins and wood pins where a tree is planted for every order. Attendees are allowed to showcase their creativity by decorating their jackets or tote bags in a memorable way to affiliate with your brand. Ethical Swag provides ideas that have been working in the market for years with a new twist; eco-friendly while elevating your impact by giving projects built right into the purchase.
Office Supplies
As people struggle with back-to-office initiatives, Ethical Swag takes the struggle away with products that align with your values and can be used in the office or at home. Try some recycled water bottle pens that come in several colors, seed paper notebooks, recycled bags or desktop accessories with this recycled phone stand. We have many choices on our website for you to choose from.
You might also consider grow kits for home or office, pop sockets are also convenient for propping up devices for easy viewing.
We suggest you consider giving away eco-friendly desk calendars made from recycled materials on seed paper that grows wildflowers. Apart from desk calendars, customizable desk puzzles and stress-relief toys are distinct conference ideas to engage with your brand in an interactive and fun way.
Conclusion
Let’s reconsider how we are using promotional items at conferences, meetings and events. Think about being purposeful when choosing products and think about what story you are interested in telling. Ensure the products align with your brand values and say something about what you believe in.
We provide products that fit with any budget and that cross over many areas of office and home. The more important conversation is ensuring your branded products do not end up in the trash bin.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can elevate your conference exposure using the right products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most popular tech gadgets for conference swag? Popular tech items for conference swag include power banks, wireless charging pads, Bluetooth speakers, and USB flash drives preloaded with useful content. These items are practical and ensure that your brand remains top of mind for attendees long after the event. At Ethical Swag, we offer a range of high-quality, innovative tech products that enhance attendees' experiences and align with sustainable values.
Why should I choose eco-friendly options for conference swag? Eco-friendly options for conference swag, such as recycled drinkware, bamboo fiber tumblers, ceramic coffee mugs, and notebooks made from recycled materials, reflect your company’s commitment to sustainability. These items not only reduce environmental impact but also resonate with attendees who value eco-conscious practices. Ethical Swag provides a variety of high-quality, sustainable swag items that help promote your brand while supporting the planet.
What are some wearable branded merchandise that can promote my brand? Wearable items like customized t-shirts, hats, and branded sunglasses are effective for promoting your brand. These items are often used daily, providing continuous exposure for your company. Ethical Swag offers a range of stylish and comfortable wearable items that attendees will love, ensuring your brand gets noticed both during and after the conference.
How can office supplies be effective conference items? Office supplies such as high-quality pens, desk organizers, portable phone stands, and eco-friendly desk calendars are practical and appreciated by attendees. These items enhance the daily work experience and ensure your brand remains visible in their workspace. Ethical Swag provides innovative and sustainable office supplies that are both functional and environmentally friendly, making them ideal for conference giveaways.
What makes Ethical Swag's conference items stand out? Ethical Swag’s conference swag items stand out due to their quality, sustainability, and customization options. We prioritize eco-friendly materials and innovative designs to ensure that our products are not only useful but also align with your company’s values. Our wide range of options allows you to choose swag that will leave a lasting impression on attendees, promoting your brand effectively while supporting ethical and sustainable practices.