The Benefits of Using Merchandise for Branding

Nowadays, branding is essential to establish a strong brand identity and recognition. Branding can create an emotional connection with potential customers or even generate new leads. One effective way to enhance branding is by using merchandise. Today, brochures, pamphlets, or business cards have mostly been replaced by branded merchandise like tumblers, t-shirts, notebooks, and more. The goal is promotion and brand recognition. So, what exactly is branded merchandise? And what are the benefits of using merchandise for branding? Let’s dive into the details!

What Is Branded Merchandise?

You’ve probably seen companies giving promotional items or souvenirs like t-shirts, tote bags, mugs, etc. These items are what we call branded merchandise—physical products that bear a brand’s logo, name, or other visual elements. Today, merchandise is diverse and trendy, including tumblers, notebooks, backpacks, jackets, power banks, and other gadgets. Merchandise is typically distributed at exhibition events, seminars, conferences, or other promotional and publication events.

So, if you’re also actively promoting, it’s worth considering branded merchandise to strengthen your branding. Merchandise tends to last a long time, months, or even years, unlike brochures or flyers which are quickly discarded. Merchandise given to event attendees will keep your brand top of mind. Branded merchandise is also one of the most efficient and cost-effective promotional or advertising tools.

Benefits of Using Merchandise for Branding

The main goal of branding is to spread information about your company and remind event visitors about your business. So, what are the benefits of using merchandise for branding? 

1. Boosting Brand Awareness

Imagine you have a t-shirt with a famous brand’s logo. Every time you wear that t-shirt, people around you will see the logo. Eventually, that logo will stick in their minds. The more often people see your brand's logo or name, the more likely they will remember your brand when they need the products or services you offer. This way, brand awareness increases. 

2. Customer Loyalty

Merchandise is like a business card, but in a form that’s enjoyable for customers. Therefore, those who use the merchandise will have an emotional connection, making them feel closer to your brand. This strengthens the relationship with customers. Merchandise also creates a positive image, leading to greater customer loyalty.

3. Cost-Effective

Unlike advertising on TV or other media, merchandise can be an affordable promotional medium. If you order or produce merchandise in large quantities, the price will be cheaper. Simply put your company’s name or logo on the product that will be used as merchandise, and with relatively cost-effective budget, your brand can be recognized by more people.

4. Differentiation from Competitors

Merchandise will also set your brand apart from competitors. Especially if your merchandise products are unique and of high quality, they will undoubtedly attract customers' attention and distinguish your brand in a competitive market.

5. Long-Term Promotional Medium

Branded merchandise can usually be used for a long time and can be repeatedly used by consumers. This means your brand will get longer and repeated exposure. The brand will continue to be remembered, so merchandise indirectly becomes a long-term promotional medium.

How Branded Merchandise Works for Branding

One of the marketing strategy objectives, including using merchandise, is to build and enhance brand recognition and awareness over time. But how exactly does merchandise work for branding, and why can it bring so many benefits as mentioned above? Let’s check this out! 

1. Helps Introduce Your Business

If you’re just starting a business, merchandise printed with your brand’s logo or name will be a more efficient way to introduce your business to potential customers than using business cards. Bags, t-shirts, or anything else printed with your brand’s logo and name will be a powerful tool to introduce your brand. Make sure your merchandise design is stylish and uses high-quality materials to attract attention both visually and functionally.

2. Leaves an Impression

Merchandise not only makes the recipient happy but also leaves an impression. A positive impression or image will make customers more loyal to your brand.

3. Beneficial in The Long Run

Promotional media like brochures or flyers might be thrown away immediately. In contrast, merchandise is usually kept and used repeatedly. The quality of the merchandise also matters. The better the quality, the more beneficial it will be in the long run.

4. Makes Your Brand Memorable

Merchandise also serves as a tool that makes your brand more memorable. Consistent logos, colors, and text on merchandise, along with the quality of the product, strengthen the brand’s identity and stay in the minds of customers. In the long term, this will certainly be beneficial from a sales perspective.

Tips for Creating or Choosing Merchandise

To help you get started, here are some tips on using merchandise for branding:

• Choose Relevant Products

  Make sure the products you choose are suitable for your target audience and relevant to their lifestyle. For example, if your target is active young people, you can choose tumblers, cool t-shirts, or gadgets.

• Quality Materials

  Don’t compromise on quality. Make sure the products you choose are high-quality and durable.

• Attractive Design

  Don’t just stick a logo on the product but make sure your merchandise design is attractive and reflects the brand. A cool design will make consumers more interested and more likely to use the merchandise frequently.

Create Cool Merchandise with EastPro

So, are you ready to start branding with merchandise? It’s time to start thinking about creating cool and impactful branded merchandise. 

EastPro can help you prepare custom merchandise that’s perfect for your event or corporate souvenirs. With creative and stylish designs and high-quality materials, your brand will be more widely recognized and your branding objectives will be achieved. Contact us now! Make sure your brand is memorable with merchandise from EastPro!