As people mind their wallets and the environment, reusable drinkware options continue to rise. End-users are more likely to keep using the free mug or tumbler they received, and that means a lot of eyes on your client’s logo. We spoke to three of the industry’s top drinkware suppliers to find out what trends end-users will appreciate the most.
1. Add a Little Color
Nick Augustine, national sales manager for ADG Promotional Products, Hugo, Minn., explained that one drinkware trend he has seen recently is the use of bright colors. “Bright colored items seem to be leading the charge for ADG right now,” Augustine said. “Color is the spice of life. Having a bright color not only makes the item more appealing, but it draws attention to the imprint you are placing on the piece.”
2. Light It Up
Just like bright colors, light-up features catch people’s eyes and add a fun aspect to the cup. “We sell a large variety of lighted drinkware,” Mike Kalamaras, president of HOWW Manufacturing, Barrington, Ill., said. “Our electronics are universal, so we can insert the correct L.E.D. color to complement the customer’s logo.”
3. All About Acrylics
When deciding which type of material the client would want for the drinkware promotion, Augustine suggested giving acrylic a try. “Acrylic products are less expensive to ship, and they allow for more creative molds and designs,” Augustine said. Acyrlic drinkware items also are easier for an end-user to throw in their bag and take along.
4. Check Out Ceramics
Leon Lazarus, director of marketing for Logomark, Tustin, Calif., suggested choosing ceramic items (instead of plastic or acrylic) to give the promotion a more valuable feel. “Higher-end ceramics seem to be trending up at the moment,” Lazarus said. “Ceramic is great for heat retention, does not interfere with the flavor of hot drinks, and is usually microwave- and dishwasher-safe. The higher-end designs make it an attractive gift with high-perceived value to the end-recipient. A gift that can be used in their home or at work.”
5. Go Big
Another feature that improves the promotion and that end-users appreciate is larger sizes. “We see a trend toward larger ounce size cups being used,” Kalamaras said. “We have a large selection of sizes, and are selling many more 20 oz., 24 oz. and 32 oz. tumblers and mugs now than in previous years. The drink promoters seem to be supersizing the promotions, giving the user more bang for their buck.”
6. Grab and Go
People bring their tumblers and mugs to work, to the gym, and while running errands. Augustine explained drinkware has to be resilient enough to handle travel. “A good tumbler or mug needs to be durable, have a good lid and be able to fit [in] a cup holder,” Augustine said. “Most people are using these products on the go, so it is extremely important that it is dependable, will prevent spills and sits in the cup holder of their vehicle.”
7. Make It Personal
Customization makes the recipient feel important, which makes it more likely they actually will use it. “The HDI (digitally printed) drinkware items we carry are capable of variable data imprinting,” Augustine said. “Some of the coolest jobs we have been running include individual personalization. This can include text or photos. One of the more popular themes are sports teams imprinting with a full-color design, but on the opposite side, it features a player’s photo and name, or a season ticket holder’s name and seat information. When you personalize a product like this, the value is significantly increased and it becomes a collector piece.”
