6 Great Giveaway Ideas

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: people love free gifts. A lot of the time at events, companies will bring promotional merchandise with them to give away, but how do you know what will be worth the investment? We’ve put together a list of some of the most popular items for giving out at events and shows and why they are so successful. We’ll just jump straight into it….

1. Listen To Their Tummy

It’s easy to earn favour through people’s hunger as you hand out promotional chocolates or energy bars. Consider even finding a product that people don’t see every day, such as fun bags of chocolate coins with your company’s logo over it so people can remember who saved them when they were in need of a sugar rush.

2. Offer Useful Items

It is often the items that people find useful that will be remembered. For instance, a branded tote bag is always a great giveaway for events as people will be able to store all of the other items they have been given from other brands and with your brand name on the outside it results in more exposure. Furthermore, think of items that people might need but will have forgotten to bring, and you’ll be their hero. For instance, if the event is on a sunny day outdoors, consider handing out promotional sunscreen.

3. Move Away From The Standard Stuff

Sure, pens and notepads are useful but are they memorable? Steer away from the standard swag and consider investing in some iPhone covers or picnic blankets to give away.

4. Consider Something Different

The real question is: does the giveaway item have to be tangible? The answer is no! You could offer a free downloadable e-book, podcast or music. That way you can be sure that people won’t lose it.

5. The Best-seller

One of our best sellers at Total Merchandise are our t-shirts. The reason for this is because t-shirts get worn! They are a safe, unisex option that appeals to people of all ages. Whether it is used as a pyjama top or worn around town it will in some way generate a little publicity for your brand.

6. Think About Your Audience

If you’re targeting a business event you will want to be considering branded notepads, pens and iPhone cases. However, with younger crowds such as University students you can have a lot more fun with it; consider promoting your brand through wacky items such as branded condoms. You are likely to be remembered at a point that is important to them!

Which giveaway items have you had the most success with?

Written by

Total Merchandise | Editoral Team

Our editorial team is drawn from a pool of experienced promotional merchandise product team members, account managers, marketers and other contributors. With such a wide range of skills and experience, they write about many aspects of promotional merchandise, wider marketing and business matters, as well as company news updates.

Connect with Total Merchandise on LinkedIn Connect with Total Merchandise on LinkedIn

Total Merchandise
Egg-Cellent Printed Easter Gifts That Every-Bunny Will Love

Egg-Cellent Printed Easter Gifts That Every-Bunny Will Love

Easter is just on the horizon and if you're considering the seasonal treats you would like to gift your customers or colleagues, you've come to the right place because o

5 Promotional Products That Every Business Needs

5 Promotional Products That Every Business Needs

The promotional products you choose to represent your business are of the utmost importance. After all, these are the items that will be showcasing your branding and helping to

Promotional Merchandise Items That Can Help Mental Wellbeing

Promotional Merchandise Items That Can Help Mental Wellbeing

The conversation around mental health and wellbeing is growing ever-louder and - it goes without saying - with due cause. With levels of stress, anxiety and depression at all-ti

Best Summer Giveaways For 2025: Ideas For Any Business & Marketing Campaign

Best Summer Giveaways For 2025: Ideas For Any Business & Marketing Campaign

Summer 2025 is fast approaching, with the season officially kicking off on 21st June. And with that in mind, what better time to start considering the best summer giveaways to t

TM Edit: The Best Pride Promotional Products For Your Business In 2025

TM Edit: The Best Pride Promotional Products For Your Business In 2025

Pride month is almost upon us, and whether you run an LGBTQ+ organisation or are perhaps planning a corporate event to show your support of the occasion, we're here to help.

Promotional Merchandise Statistics: What’s Working in 2025?

Promotional Merchandise Statistics: What’s Working in 2025?

As digital marketing channels become more saturated, branded merchandise continues to stand out by offering something tangible and lasting. Whether given away at events, sent in