Allee Bruce, Author at Print & Promo Marketing

Understanding Promotional Headwear Trends

2022 was a record year for the promotional products industry — growing 13.1% and reaching $25 billion in sales volume, according to PPAI. These big numbers mean big opportunities for promotional product distributors. One way they can get their share of sales is by exploring new products and staying in the know, and a category…

There’s something to be said about a water bottle, mug, or tumbler that sees daily use. The term “emotional support water bottle” was coined some time in the last few years, and for good reason. Drinkware helps people get through their days, whether it’s keeping them hydrated or storing their favorite caffeinated beverage. Promotional products…

The one thing about trends: They’re constantly changing. While the wholesale apparel market trails behind what’s happening in retail, it’s “much closer than we’ve ever been,” falling about one year behind retail trends, says Vicki Ostrom, trend analyst/futurist for SanMar, Issaquah, Washington. While not everything in retail transfers to the promo apparel industry, there are…

Remember when Patagonia decided to put a pause on all direct embroidery on its products due to sustainability concerns? In April 2021, it felt co-branding garments would lead to forgotten items, a shortened lifespan, and ultimately textile waste. However, the company has recently decided to change course on this decision after finding a more responsible…

Apparel decorators and promotional product distributors continue to gear up for the year ahead. In the world of T-shirts, that means endless branding opportunities. From fundraiser tees to corporate swag, organizations can get excited about the opportunity for impressions in 2023.