Call us at 1-877-446-7746

A person handing a bag to another person

Best promotional swag

By Samantha O'Rourke

9 min read

Posted: January 31, 2025

Establishing and maintaining your company's brand and reputation can be an overwhelming task in today's competitive market. It's not just about offering great products or services—it's about creating a memorable and lasting impression on both employees and customers. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through quality promotional swag. The right swag can enhance employee morale, boost brand visibility and foster customer loyalty.

With years of experience, 4imprint has been helping brands stand out every day. Our wide range of customizable promotional products is designed to ensure your brand leaves a lasting impression. From free samples to complimentary art assistance and expert service, we make it easy to find the perfect swag for your needs. We're taking a look at the best promotional swag options and how they can make a significant impact on your brand’s success. Let’s dive in!

What Is Company Swag?

Company swag refers to branded items that businesses use to promote their brand, build loyalty and create a lasting impression. These items, often featuring the company’s logo or design, can range from practical items like pens and notebooks to more unique and creative products. Swag serves as a tangible reminder of the company and can be used to engage both employees and clients effectively.

What Is Corporate Swag for Employees?

Corporate swag for employees includes branded items that companies provide to their workforce. These items can serve multiple purposes:

  • Recognition and rewards: Offering corporate swag as part of an employee recognition program can boost morale and show appreciation. Items like customized apparel or tech gadgets can help employees feel valued.
  • Onboarding kits: New employees can receive welcome kits that include branded merchandise like water bottles or notebooks. These items can help new hires feel part of the team right from day one.
  • Company events and milestones: During company events or to commemorate milestones, giving out branded items can enhance the sense of unity and celebration. Think about items like event-specific T-shirts or branded bags.
  • Day-to-day use: Practical items that employees can use daily, such as mugs or USB drives, can keep the company brand top of mind and create a consistent visual presence in the workplace.

What Is Swag in Marketing?

Swag in marketing refers to the use of promotional products to increase brand visibility, attract new customers and strengthen relationships with existing clients. These items can be distributed in-person, at trade shows and conferences or as part of direct mail campaigns.

  • Trade shows and events: Swag items like tote bags and pens are popular at trade shows because they are useful and portable. Attendees are more likely to remember a brand that provided them with something they can use during the event.
  • Client appreciation: Sending useful branded items to clients can help maintain strong business relationships. Items like branded tech accessories can serve as thoughtful reminders of your business.
  • Marketing campaigns: Incorporating swag into marketing campaigns can increase engagement and response rates. For example, a direct mail campaign that includes a useful promotional item can entice recipients to learn more about your services.
  • Online promotions: Companies can also use swag for online giveaways and contests. This can drive social media engagement and increase brand awareness as participants share their winnings with their network.

What Is the Benefit of Swag?

Company swag, also known as promotional products, can positively impact both employees and clients in a significant way. Let’s take a look at how swag can help improve company culture, boost your brand image and even potentially increase your revenue!

Benefits of Swag for Employees

1. Improve company culture

Giving employees branded swag can make the workplace more enjoyable. Selecting an item that your employees will enjoy using helps them feel valued and connected to your company—59% of employees who receive promotional products that reflect their employer’s branding have a more favorable impression of their workplace.

2. Help retain employees

Keeping employees happy is important for any business! By giving them useful and thoughtful branded items, companies can increase job satisfaction and loyalty. Onboarding kits, event-specific swag and day-to-day items can make employees feel appreciated and part of a cohesive team.

3. Boost your company’s brand image

Corporate swag also helps reinforce your company’s brand image. When employees use your branded items, they become brand ambassadors, promoting your company both inside and outside the workplace. This consistent exposure can improve your company's reputation and strengthen its identity.

Benefits of Swag for Clients

1. Increase revenue

Promotional items can directly impact a company’s bottom line by driving sales and generating leads. After all, 70% of brands consider promotional products to be “always” or “mostly” effective in achieving marketing goals. By distributing useful and high-quality items, you can attract more clients and encourage repeat business.

2. Build brand awareness and loyalty

Swag items are a great way to build brand awareness. According to industry statistics, 89% of consumers say they have received a promotional product in the last six months. Among these, 79% researched the brand after receiving the item, and 83% reported that the contacts made it more likely they would do business with the brand offering the promotional product. Swag items serve as constant reminders of your brand, making clients more likely to choose you when making purchasing decisions.

3. Enhance client relationships

Swag can also help strengthen relationships with existing clients. Sending clients high-quality branded items shows appreciation and keeps your brand at the forefront of their minds. Thoughtful gifts can make clients feel valued and more connected to your business. This personal touch can lead to increased client retention and long-term loyalty.

By leveraging the power of company swag, you can create a positive and lasting impact on both employees and clients, ultimately driving growth and success.

What Is an Example of Swag?

Swag covers a wide range of products that can be customized with your company’s logo or message. These items are designed to promote your brand and leave a lasting impression on recipients. Let’s take a quick look at some promotional swag ideas for employees and clients to give you an idea of what types of items you can use:

Cool Swag Ideas for Employees

Company Swag Ideas for Clients

By selecting the right promotional swag ideas, your company can create memorable experiences for both employees and clients. Customizing these items with your brand’s logo and colors helps foster loyalty and engagement.

Is Company Swag Worth It?

Yes, investing in promotional products can provide substantial returns through increased loyalty among both employees and customers, which ultimately translates into a boost for your bottom line. For employees, receiving branded swag can help improve job satisfaction and morale. When employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to stay with the company longer, reducing turnover and the associated costs of hiring and training new staff. These branded items, whether they're quality apparel or useful gadgets, foster a sense of belonging and team spirit, making the workplace more enjoyable and cohesive.

On the customer side, research indicates that a large percentage of customers remember the brand name of a company that gave them a promotional item, and many use these items regularly and gain frequent brand exposure. This constant visibility strengthens brand recognition and loyalty, making customers more likely to choose your company over competitors. Additionally, customers who receive promotional products are more likely to engage further with your brand, including providing leads and repeat business. In short, the strategic use of high-quality swag can not only enhance customer loyalty but also drive revenue growth, making it a smart investment for any business.

How Much Should I Spend on Swag?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” budget for promotional swag—while determining the right budget can seem overwhelming, the first step is to understand their tangible value in order to justify the investment. Companies frequently use swag at conferences, trade shows, and other events to make a lasting impression on potential clients and partners. The ROI from these items often far exceeds the initial cost, making them a smart choice for many businesses.

Promotional products generate substantial impressions at a relatively low cost. According to the Ad Specialty Institute, the average cost per impression for a promotional item is about 0.6 cents, which is significantly lower than many other advertising forms. Research by PROmotion Marketing shows that a single promotional item averages 344 impressions per month, highlighting their effectiveness in keeping your brand visible. Furthermore, 81% of consumers keep promotional products for one to five years, ensuring prolonged exposure and ongoing brand reinforcement.

Budgeting for Swag

Companies that have been in business for five years or less should allocate 12 to 20% of their projected revenue to marketing, which includes promotional products. This investment helps build market share, customer loyalty and brand recognition. When planning your swag budget, consider the longevity and impact of these items. By carefully selecting brand-adjacent, useful items, you can maximize marketing dollars and achieve significant returns. The right promotional products can lead to increased brand awareness, customer engagement, and ultimately, higher sales, proving their worth in the marketing mix.

Unique company swag, tailored to your audience and reflective of your brand, can differentiate your business at crowded events and create memorable interactions. Investing in such items not only offers immediate visibility but also fosters long-term brand loyalty, making the expenditure a strategic and effective component of your marketing efforts.

What Swag Do People Like Most?

Promotional products are most effective when they align with recipients' preferences and needs. Understanding which types of swag people like most can help you select items that maximize engagement and brand visibility. Let’s take a look at items that people love to receive.

Most Popular Swag Items

  • Clothing consistently ranks as the most popular category of promotional products. According to research, 41% of consumers recall receiving apparel, with shirts (22%), caps/headwear (11%), and outerwear (6%) being the most memorable categories. Wearable items are practical and visible, turning recipients into walking advertisements for your brand. For example, 4imprint offers a wide range of customizable T-shirts that can be tailored to fit your brand’s aesthetic and message.
  • Writing instruments are another favorite, with 35% of consumers remembering receiving these items. Pens and highlighters are not only useful but also provide a high number of impressions due to their frequent use.
  • Drinkware is also highly valued, with 19% of consumers recalling these items. Reusable water bottles, coffee mugs and travel tumblers are practical and loved by many.

High End Swag Ideas

For a more luxurious touch, high end corporate gifts can make a significant impact. These items are perfect for special occasions, valued clients, or top-performing employees. High-end swagimpresses and conveys a message of quality and appreciation.

  • Executive tech gadgets like high-capacity power banks are highly valued and frequently used.
  • Premium drinkware items like wine glasses offer a touch of class and are highly appreciated for their durability and functionality. These items are perfect for clients or employees who value quality and style.
  • Luxury office supplies like leather-bound journals or high-quality pens can add a touch of sophistication to any workspace.

Investing in these types of swag can help strengthen relationships with clients and employees, demonstrating that you value their partnership and contributions.

How Do I Create Company Swag?

Creating company swag involves selecting the right items, designing them to reflect your brand, and managing the ordering process. With 4imprint, one of the best swag companies, you can easily navigate these steps. We offer a vast selection of products, from apparel to tech gadgets, and provide comprehensive services to help bring your vision to life. You can get free samples and use our in-house design team to create or refine logos—all with the peace of mind knowing that your swag will be produced and delivered on time. Our website offers easy browsing and detailed product descriptions, making it simple to choose the perfect items for your needs.

Here at 4imprint, we also provide resources for special events, trade shows, and corporate gifts. Our customer service team is available to assist with any questions or custom requests so that your promotional products meet your exact specifications. Whether you need a small batch for a special occasion or a large order for a major campaign, 4imprint can handle it all, providing quality and consistency across all your branded items.

How Do I Create a Swag Store for My Employees?

Creating a swag store for employees starts with selecting a range of items that cater to different tastes and needs. Offering a variety of products, from branded apparel to useful tech gadgets, helps keep employees engaged and proud to represent your brand.

To set up an online store, you’ll need to create a portal either through your company’s internal platform or using a service provided by a swag company. Partnering with a reliable provider like 4imprint can be a great way to stock your company’s store with extensive customization options. Your swag store should allow employees to browse and order items easily.

4imprint: Swag That Stands Out

Here at 4imprint, you’ll find a team that is completely dedicated to helping you find the best promotional swag to elevate your brand. Whether you need custom apparel, tech gadgets or more, we offer a wide range of products to suit any occasion. Our 360° Guarantee® means you’ll receive the perfect product, perfectly printed, and delivered on time. If it’s late, it’s on us! If you find a better value, we’ll refund double the difference. And if you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll refund or rerun your order.

From beloved brands to exclusive items, we have everything you need, including a 24-hour product line for those urgent requests. Our Better Choices® program offers promotional products with characteristics that align with your sustainability goals. Plus, with our Blue Box® program, we build relationships by sending you free samples and catalogs, accompanied by personal letters from our CEO.

We pride ourselves on our customer service and personal touch—you’ll even see our employees featured in our catalogs and website. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and satisfying experience. Visit us at 4imprint to start your order today and experience our unparalleled commitment to your satisfaction. Let us help you make your brand shine with the perfect promotional products.

Products in this Article

Silk Touch Performance Sport Polo

Refresh Clutch Water Bottle

4imprint Leisure Duffel

Value White Coffee Mug

Wolverine Pen
To Top