It’s a new year, and there are plenty of things to be excited about. There’s going to be another Super Bowl, spring is around the corner, and perhaps, most importantly, there are new promotional products to discover.
As distributors, it’s important to stay current on the latest product trends and releases. After all, end-buyers want a solution that will impress their end-users and ease their pain points. You can do that with some tried-and-true products, sure, but why not add a little splash of pizzazz where possible.
To help position you for success, we looked around the industry and talked to a few suppliers about what is coming down the pipeline in 2022, what cool products are already here and why distributors should pay attention. Let’s get to it!
1. Thin Grip by iClick
iClick, Seattle, hit it big in the promo industry as the only supplier of custom PopSocket PopGrips — the must-have accessories for clumsy smartphone users or people who just want to take their selfie game to another level.
Now, with the Thin Grip, people have more pocket space to work with for storage. The Thin Grip is also compatible with Qi chargers, which are becoming more commonplace for smartphones.
“[It’s a] great low-budget giveaway phone grip,” said Daniel Grotjahn, inside sales representative, midwest, for iClick. “Very thin and easy to use, so no struggle getting your phone in and out of your pocket. Everyone has a phone, and this is always a great low-cost item to pitch your client when looking for something quick and easy.”
Grotjahn added that smartphone accessories and computer accessories will remain popular in the promo space while people continue to work from home. Other products for the Zoom-ready workplace include lights, power banks, and UV sanitizers to make sure items are safe to use.
“Basically anything that can be used as a desktop item or assist you while working remotely,” he said.
2. Cadence Deep Tissue Massage Gun by Ariel Premium Supply
A sizable portion of the workforce moved the office to their homes. But that’s not the only thing they added. For many, home workouts have become a way of life, and recovery is of the utmost importance.
You’ve probably seen a few fitness influencers tout the effectiveness of massage guns. You might have even thought, “Huh, I’d like one of those,” but never got around to buying one. Well, end-users could be in for a real treat if they receive one as a gift or incentive.
“Ariel continues to find quality products for gifts and personal use,” said Laura Brewer, CAS, senior sales manager for Ariel Premium Supply. “As we have seen in the last two years, personal products are popular gift items for employees, as well as customers — items someone may not purchase for themselves and would enjoy at their leisure. A spa item is always appreciated as a fun gift or giveaway.”
Brewer added that finding solutions that work for home, in the office or at the gym makes for a product that end-users will use and hold onto for a long time.
“Not only does Ariel look for the personal use items, but the items used at your desk or in the office,” she said. “And our tech items can be used for both personal and business purposes.”
3. Opal Laminated Non-Woven Tote by Bag Makers Inc.
This tote bag includes Bag Makers’ new “Dynamic Color” print process, which provides multi-color imprints on laminated non-woven totes.
4. Modal Scarf by Buffalo Bay
This scarf is digitally printed on a plant-based textile, making it breathable and absorbent, and an eco-friendly alternative to cotton. Its ample design space leaves plenty of room for elaborate decorations, like the one shown here depicting the Georgia Tech Fight song, “Rambling Wreck From Georgia Tech.”
5. Islander Softy Rose Gold Gel Pen With Stylus by Goldstar
Having a good pen is enough motivation for any writer. Now, that doesn’t mean you have to write the next great American novel. Maybe you’ll finally adhere to that New Year’s resolution to start journaling or jotting down daily to-do lists with this new pen.
6. Mini Mask Perch by Hit Promotional Products
When returning to work still requires a mask, this handy little tool attaches to a computer screen to safely hold onto the mask between trips to the water cooler and back. It also keeps the mask from touching surfaces to minimize germ spread, and works for other items like ID lanyards or keys.
7. Recycled PET On the Move Backpack by Koozie Group
End-users are looking for ways to be eco-friendly, and this stylish bag fits into a lifestyle that encourages walking to the grocery store, biking to work and taking care of the planet. It is made from 73% post-consumer recycled PET.
8. 20 oz. Straight Stainless Steel Travel Mug by Tekweld
You had us at “double-wall insulation” to keep drinks hot or cold, but we’re pretty impressed by the handle to be honest. It’s a sleek, minimal, and stylish design not seen too often, and it has a cool classic-yet-futuristic vibe. As the kids say, we’re here for it.
9. Spokane Jacket by Tri-Mountain
This nylon shell jacket has a 10,000mm waterproof rating and even has a hood hidden in the collar, so you can bust it out when the rain gets too heavy or stow it away when you just want a little protection from the chilly breeze. It even packs into the front left pocket with a carrying strap for easy storage and transport.
10. Aurora 12 oz. Concrete Candle by SnugZ USA
This candle is a chic and modern twist on a timeless classic. The concrete creates a contemporary, urban renewal vibe that fits into the coolest loft apartment ever seen. The owner of this candle has a well-curated record and book collection, and their home smells great, too. (At least that’s what we imagine.)
