Whenever consumers think of any product or hear a category, their mind thinks of a specific brand. for instance, when we say smartphones, either Apple or Samsung comes to mind, when we say sunglasses, Ray-Ban comes to mind or when we think of online videos, we automatically think of YouTube.
This top-of-the-mind awareness in the minds of the consumers can be achieved with careful strategy. To become a household name is every company’s mission and vision. But only a few top brands succeed in achieving it unless operating as the only product or service provider in the market.
One such strategy despite being old still works wonders for brands –especially those starting out. We are talking about promotional or company branded merchandise as a means of promotion or advertising. Promotional products have remained a popular marketing tactic throughout the history of marketing and advertising. Businesses continue to see and track the positive effect they have on the sales, reputation and brand entity. Since the question is what good does it does, let’s take a look at some of the many benefits it offers businesses.
Endorses Your Brand’s Positive Image
It is human nature that we easily recall the good and bad that happens to us or the person who did it. This tendency to remember plays an important role in branding. Promotional gear is nothing but an extra gift. It can be a way to connect on a deeper level with your consumers. As a result of this, a good reputation about the company or business is instilled in the customer’s mind.
Reinforces Existing Products/Services
Providing a little extra with something also helps businesses gain that edge over their competitors. This extra can come in the form of value-added features in an existing product or service, discounted offerings or through promotional gear. This helps in boosting customer loyalty and promotes referrals. It will also give exposure to products or services that aren’t doing well during the off-season.
Helps Spread the Word
Giving branded stationery or gifts to consumers that they can use on a routine basis also plays a major role in spreading a positive word about your business. Every time, they take it out of their briefcase or purse (stationary), write on it (writing pads) or wear it (promotional T-shirts), they are in the process of promoting the brand they use. The more exposure your brand gets, the higher the chances of attracting prospective clients.
Helps Businesses Recapture and Retain Customers
With competition on the rise, it has become equally important to retain customers as it is to approach new ones. Branded gear in this respect can help businesses to stay on top of their game and also on the mind of their consumer. As we learned above how good deeds aren’t forgotten easily, any brand that shows care won’t be forgotten either. This one meaningful gesture can even recapture lost consumers as humans always products and services that are value-added. When they believe they are getting more than what was promised they feel valued and important.
