Unlock the potential of promotional products

Your comprehensive guide to the promotional products industry.

  • 3 Dimensional


    3 Dimensional design refers to the use of three-dimensional elements in visual design, such as in packaging or product design. This can include techniques such as sculpting, folding, or layering to create a sense of depth and dimensionality.

  • Ad specialties


    Ad specialties are promotional products that are customized with a company's branding and used as a marketing tool. Examples include pens, magnets, and stress balls.

  • American Kitsch


    American Kitsch is a style that is characterized by an exaggerated, over-the-top aesthetic and a sense of nostalgia. It often includes elements such as vintage advertisements, retro fonts, and brightly-colored graphics.

  • Art Deco


    Art Deco is an artistic style that originated in the 1920s and is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and lavish ornamentation. Art Deco design often includes elements such as gold leaf, mirrored surfaces, and abstract patterns.

  • Art Nouveau


    Art Nouveau is an artistic style that emerged in the late 19th century and is characterized by organic, flowing lines and a focus on nature. Art Nouveau design often includes elements such as flowers, vines, and other natural motifs.

  • Bitmap


    A bitmap is a type of digital image that is made up of pixels and is commonly used to store graphics on computers. Bitmaps are resolution-dependent and are often used for images such as photographs, which require a high level of detail.

  • Brand awareness


    Brand awareness refers to the extent to which consumers are familiar with and recognize a company's brand. Promotional products can be used to increase brand awareness by putting a company's name and logo in front of potential customers on a regular basis.

  • Customer appreciation


    Customer appreciation is the practice of showing gratitude to customers for their loyalty and business. Promotional products can be used as a way to show appreciation to customers, such as by giving them a gift with a company's logo on it.

  • Debossing


    Debossing is a printing technique in which an image is pressed into the surface of a product, creating an indentation. This method is often used to add a professional touch to products such as business cards, notebooks, and leather portfolios.

  • Direct mail


    Direct mail is a marketing method in which promotional products are mailed directly to a targeted group of consumers. This can be an effective way to reach potential customers, as it allows businesses to personalize their marketing messages and choose the specific products they want to send.

  • Direct to Garment (DTG)


    Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a printing method in which ink is directly applied to a garment using inkjet technology.

  • Distribution


    Distribution refers to the process of getting products to the end customer, either directly or through intermediaries such as wholesalers or retailers. 3PL providers may offer distribution services such as order processing, inventory management, and returns handling.

  • Dropshipping


    Business model where sellers don’t hold inventory; products are shipped directly from suppliers to customers upon purchase, reducing upfront costs.

  • Embroidery


    Embroidery is a decorative stitching technique used to apply logos or designs to promotional products such as polo shirts, tote bags, and baseball caps.

  • Employee recognition


    Employee recognition is the practice of acknowledging and rewarding the contributions and hard work of employees. Promotional products can be used as part of an employee recognition program, such as by giving out custom t-shirts or jackets to top performers.

  • Fulfillment


    Fulfillment refers to the process of receiving, storing, and distributing products to customers. 3PL providers often offer fulfillment services, including warehousing, pick and pack, and shipping.

  • Gothic


    Gothic is a style that is characterized by a dark, romantic, and often macabre aesthetic. It often includes elements such as black clothing, Victorian-style architecture, and motifs inspired by death and horror.

  • Grunge


    Grunge is a style that originated in the Pacific Northwest in the 1990s and is characterized by a laid-back, unkempt look. Grunge fashion often includes distressed or ripped clothing, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens boots.

  • Heat Transfer


    Heat transfer printing applies designs to materials using heat-applied ink on transfer paper, pressed onto the fabric with heat and pressure.

  • Imprinting


    Imprinting refers to the process of printing or applying a design or message onto a promotional product. This can be done using a variety of methods, including screen printing, embroidery, debossing, and laser engraving.

  • Incentives


    Incentives are rewards or bonuses offered to motivate and encourage certain behaviors or actions. Promotional products can be used as incentives, such as by offering a free gift to customers who refer a friend or make a certain number of purchases.

  • Industrial


    Industrial is a style that is characterized by a raw, utilitarian aesthetic and the use of materials such as concrete, steel, and exposed pipes. Industrial design often includes elements such as exposed wiring, raw finishes, and factory-inspired elements.

  • Laser engraving


    Laser engraving is a printing technique in which a laser is used to etch an image or text onto a product. This method is often used to create high-quality, long-lasting designs on products such as metal pens, keychains, and stainless steel water bottles.

  • Lead generation


    Lead generation is the process of identifying and cultivating potential customers for a business. Promotional products can be used to generate leads by attracting attention and prompting people to learn more about a company.

  • Linen


    Linen is a natural fiber made from the flax plant. It is known for its light weight, breathability, and coolness, and is often used to make clothing such as dresses, pants, and suits.

  • Mid-century modern


    Mid-century modern is a style that originated in the 1950s and is characterized by clean lines, organic forms, and a focus on functionality. Mid-century modern design often includes elements such as geometric shapes, warm wood tones, and pops of bright color.

  • Minimalist


    Minimalist is a style that emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with a focus on clean lines and a minimal use of decorative elements. Minimalist design often features a neutral color palette and a lack of clutter.

  • Point-of-sale (POS) items


    POS items are promotional products that are displayed and given away at the point of sale, such as in a store or at a trade show booth. Examples include brochures, flyers, and product samples.

  • Polybagging


    Polybagging refers to the process of wrapping promotional products in a plastic bag for protection and preservation during storage, shipping and distribution. The plastic bags help to maintain the quality of the product and prevent it from being damaged or contaminated. This packaging method is widely used for a variety of promotional items such as pens, key chains, and mugs. Polybagging is a cost-effective and efficient way to package products and is a common practice in the promotional product industry.

  • Polyester


    Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum-based chemicals, known for its wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying properties. It's used to make athletic wear and uniforms.

  • Pop art


    Pop art is a style that emerged in the 1950s and is characterized by the use of popular culture imagery and bright, bold colors. Pop art often includes elements such as comic book graphics, advertisements, and celebrity portraits.

  • Premiums


    Premiums are promotional products that are given away as an incentive or reward, often in exchange for some type of action (such as making a purchase or filling out a survey). Examples include t-shirts, hats, and water bottles.

  • Promotional product distributors


    Promotional product distributors are companies that specialize in selling promotional products to businesses. They often have a wide selection of products to choose from and can help businesses find the perfect products to meet their marketing needs.

  • Promotional products


    These are items that are imprinted with a company's name, logo, or marketing message and are used for advertising or marketing purposes. Examples of promotional products include t-shirts, pens, mugs, and tote bags.

  • Psychedelic


    Psychedelic is a style that is characterized by bright, bold colors, abstract patterns, and distorted shapes. It often includes elements such as trippy graphics and swirling, hypnotic designs.

  • Punk


    Punk is a style that emerged in the 1970s and is characterized by an anti-establishment attitude, DIY ethos, and a rebellious spirit. Punk fashion often features bold, graphic designs, such as spiked hair, leather jackets, and studded belts.

  • Raster format


    A raster format is a type of file format that stores raster images. Common raster formats include JPEG, PNG, and TIFF.

  • Raster image


    A raster image is a type of digital image that is made up of pixels, or small squares of color. Raster images are resolution-dependent, meaning they have a fixed number of pixels and can become pixelated or blurry when scaled up.

  • Resolution


    Resolution refers to the number of pixels per inch (PPI) in an image. Higher resolution images have more pixels and are therefore able to display more detail and sharpness.

  • Retro


    Retro is a style that is characterized by a nostalgiciacal aesthetic and the use of vintage-inspired design elements. Retro design often includes elements such as bold patterns, bright colors, and retro fonts.

  • Ring-spun cotton


    Ring-spun cotton is a type of cotton yarn that is made by twisting fibers together to create a soft, strong, and durable fabric. Ring-spun cotton is often used to make t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other types of clothing due to its comfort, breathability, and ability to hold up to washing and wear.

  • Screen Printing


    Screen printing is a technique in which ink is pushed through a screen onto the product and is often used for printing onto t-shirts, hats, and other textiles.

  • Silk


    Silk is a natural protein fiber produced by silkworms. It is known for its softness, shine, and drape, and is often used to make clothing such as dresses, blouses, and scarves.

  • Spandex


    Spandex is a stretchy synthetic fiber blended with other fibers to create leggings, swimsuits, and workout wear due to its elasticity.

  • Supply chain management


    Supply chain management refers to the coordination of all activities involved in the production, distribution, and delivery of goods. 3PL providers may offer supply chain management services such as sourcing, procurement, and production planning.

  • Swag Bag / Box


    A swag box, also known as a press kit or media kit, is a collection of promotional items that is sent to journalists, influencers, or other media representatives in order to promote a company, product, or event. Swag boxes typically include a variety of items such as product samples, branded merchandise, press releases, and other promotional materials. The goal of a swag box is to generate buzz and media coverage for the company or product being promoted. Swag boxes are often sent out to media outlets prior to a product launch or event in order to generate interest and build anticipation.

  • Swiss/International


    Swiss/International style is a design movement that originated in Switzerland in the 1950s and is characterized by a focus on clean, modern lines and the use of sans-serif typefaces. This style is known for its simplicity and clarity, with an emphasis on function over form.

  • Third-party logistics (3PL)


    3PL outsources transportation, warehousing, and distribution to enable businesses to concentrate on their core competencies while providers handle logistics.

  • Trade show


    A trade show is an event at which companies in a specific industry display their products or services to potential customers. These events are typically attended by industry professionals and can be a great way for businesses to network and showcase their products. Promotional products are often given out at trade shows as a way to promote a company's brand and generate leads.

  • Trade show giveaways


    Trade show giveaways are promotional products that are given out to attendees at trade shows as a way to promote a company's brand and generate leads.

  • Vector format


    A vector format is a type of file format that stores vector graphics. Common vector formats include EPS, AI, and SVG.

  • Vector graphic


    A vector graphic is a type of digital image that is made up of lines and shapes, rather than pixels. Vector graphics are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled to any size without losing quality.

  • Vectorization


    Vectorization refers to the process of converting a raster image into a vector graphic. This can be useful for editing or resizing images, as vector graphics are more flexible and scalable than raster images.

  • Wearables


    Wearables are promotional products that can be worn, such as t-shirts, jackets, and hats. These types of products are often used to promote a company's brand and can be given out as gifts or sold as merchandise.

  • Wool


    Wool, a natural fiber from sheep, goats, and alpacas, is warm, durable, and moisture-wicking. Clothing such as coats, suits, and sweaters is commonly made from it.