Months of planning goes into an event; time is spent meticulously going over the stand details, literature, data capture method, and of course a prize. But when it comes to the day, what is going to be your secret to a successful show? Here at Hambleside we think merchandise plays a big role in hooking in interest, and keeping your brand name in front of your customers.
But what can you choose as a promotional item for your event that is different enough to interest people and draw attention to your brand? Now, delegates want to take something away that they will use, and companies want to provide something that will remain in their minds for months to come. The best piece of merchandise is used by your customer every few days and hangs around your customer’s desk or car or handbag for the next 6 months. These items may cost slightly more, but the cost is far outweighed by the quality of the product and for the fact that it will remain in plain sight for longer.
Higher end promotional giveaways such as powerbanks and connector items are seen as attractive and quality, and are therefore far more likely to be used. Even a premium branded notepad and pen duo is likely to be used and appreciated for being a useful item. Therefore, these superior products are the best way to attract your customer’s long term.
However, the traditional promotional pens, USBs and branded travel mugs remain firm favourites with delegates. Giveaways that can be used on a daily basis such as the aforementioned items provide some great branding time in front of your customers. The other option is to go for something industry specific. For example, for companies in the housing industry, such as estate agents, housing developers or plumbers, a radiator key is a fun way to convey branding whilst still remaining on point within your industry.
An alternative option is to go for sweet treats to tempt your customers. Branded mints, retro sweet boxes and bespoke chocolate bars are another way to offer your customers something tempting. Once they are on your stand and engaging in conversation about your giveaway, it is then much easier to discuss your products. Here at Hambleside we work with your brand and your business to source the best solution for your event needs. We can offer an account management service whereby we consult your strategy and planning, and look at how merchandise can fit in within your marketing mix.
Whether for a one off event of the year, or for multiple events throughout 12 months, we can source and ship the best merchandise according to your brand, budget and brief.
CASE STUDY: Hambleside Merchandise exhibited at the TFM&A Show in London in March 2015. We took with us, a 3-in-1 media stand, a bespoke USB and iPad stand. The giveaways attracted a lot of interest and delegates enjoyed delving into our bowl of goodies. Since the show, we have had numerous tweets regarding the 3-in-1 stand in particular, people loved the multi-purpose item, and it meant they had branded products on their desks after the event.
We also handed out over 500 cotton tote bags, which worked as in-event marketing, as other delegates saw the eye-catching bags and wanted to seek out our stand. All in all, the most eye-catching and interesting merchandise is what attracts potential customers and giving them something to take away with them will help to keep you at the front of their mind, which is ultimately the secret to a successful event. Contact us for more details via email [email protected], call 023 9235 4960 or view our great range of event and exhibiton merchandise.
