ASI Show Fort Worth Recap: What's Hot in the Promotional Industry?
In January, our Print & Promotional Specialist and Marketing team traveled to Fort Worth, Texas to attend ASI's first major show of 2023. We visited our current promotional suppliers, connected with new ones, and learned all about what's new in the promotional industry so that we can provide the best suggestions for marketing our client's brands!
Here are some of the top trends and items we discovered at the show:
Trend #1: Practicality and/or Sustainability First
Pens, clips, sanitizer, lip balm... classics are classics for a reason. HOWEVER, it's 2023, and what people are really interested in are items with a practical use, and as a bonus, ones that have less of an impact on the environment. These items tend to cost a little more, but our team is happy to work with you budget. Plus, it's important to remember that these quality items will not only be appreciated more, but are more likely to incentivize your team, guests, and clients to look upon your brand with higher regard.
Some of the top items we found at the ASI Show that fall into this category were:
- Multi-Tools
- Quality Bags, Totes, and Lunch Bags
- Tumblers and Lidded Mugs
- Umbrellas
- Towels
- Blankets
Item #1: Smarter Tumblers
This Kambukka series of tumblers features a patented "smart" lid that can be disassembled for a more thorough clean and enables users to toggle between push-button open, always open, or always closed (perfect for throwing into a bag without fear of leaks). The stainless steel body keeps drinks hot or cold for hours at a time. Plus, it's BPA-free and includes an integrated bottom pad!
Available in: 10oz Pitch Black • 17oz Black Steel • 17oz Denim Blue, Coffee Brown, or Glossy Silver • 25oz Stainless Steel or Nightfall Black • 25oz Clear Midnight Blue
Trend #2: Foil Stamping Stands Out
Add an elegant and unique look to your products with foil stamping! A variety of colored metallic foils are available to match your brand. From custom printing and napkins to coasters and gift bags, foil stamping can add that high-quality feel that guests and clients will appreciate.
Item #2: Specialty Stickers / Decals
Stickers are always in, can be applied to every industry, and are always well received. So how do we take them to the next level? Here are three options:
- Wood: Custom cherry oak wood veneer stickers are the perfect addition to any project. Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance to your products, create unique marketing materials, or label your items with a one-of-a-kind design, these stickers are the perfect solution.
- Holographic: A fast and easy way to promote your business, brand, or event. Holographic vinyl has an eye-catching rainbow effect which changes with light and perspective. Choose from a variety of holographic colors with or without glitter.
- Glow in the Dark: Whether they’re for a car, a phone, a water bottle, a helmet, or even a promotional gift, custom glow in the dark stickers are a fun way to create something unique. Once the lights go out, the white areas of the sticker glow bright green.
Trend #3: Reinventing Recognition
We had the chance to meet with a supplier who creates completely customized recognition awards to show appreciation for your team and clients. If you haven't yet, consider years of service / anniversary awards, recognition awards and awards of excellence, employee of the month gifts, and more!
With a variety of sizes available, we are able to work with your budget. From full-color number-shaped stand alone pieces to paperweight awards to stackable block recognition, we are here to help you show how much you appreciate your team or clients!
Check out some of these hot looks below, and reach out to our Print & Promotional Specialist at promos@perryop.com to request artwork and a quote!
Item #3: Engraved Chocolate
Don't see how chocolate can be useful to your brand? You'd be surprised! Apart from classic "Thank You" or "Happy Birthday" chocolates, you can turn custom chocolate into a full blown marketing campaign. We'll list just a few that we found especially outstanding below, but if you're curious how your company might be able to use chocolates, contact promos@perryop.com!
- Car Dealerships:
- The service department leaves two cookies in each vehicle they service to create a lasting legacy with customers.
- The dealership gives a 2lb bar to every new car owner - it could feature an image of the entire staff, the dealership logo, or even the QR code for the customers to scan to leave a review on their experience!
- Corporate / Retail:
- Celebrate the opening of a new office / location with details and a picture of the new office on the chocolate.
- News of a merger or new branding can be sent to clients and partners to let them know of the change.
- Financial / Insurance:
- An insurance company provided a car shaped piece of chocolate to send to individuals after an accident with all the paperwork as a kind gesture to lift spirits.
- A bank gave a gold foiled chocolate bar with their logo on the wrapper to all customers who opened a bank account that month.
- Medical:
- A blood center provided a branded 2x5 bar to thank those who donated blood and replenish sugar levels!
- A doctor's office sent out a chocolate gift to every referrer as a token of appreciation.
- Product Launch:
- Yes, we can get you a chocolate in the shape of your latest product to help with promotions!
And that are just the start! Check out a couple more of these incredible custom treats and contact our team today to learn more and get started with a quote!
See something you like? Want other suggestions?
After visiting the show, our Print & Promotional Specialist is more equipped than other to help you boost your brand! Reach out to them at promos@perryop.com if you're ready to market, incentivize, thank, or recruit.
