Another end of year is approaching. As we prepare to change the calendar to 2025, it’s good to reflect on the past year to uncover what themes from 2024 can influence our approach to promotional merch in the new year.
The past few years have shown us that consumer habits and preferences shift rapidly and staying ahead of the curve is essential. As consumer demands evolve, the promo industry’s strategies must adapt as well.
We explore some of the top trending topics from 2024 and how they can shape the promo world in 2025.
Election Promo
2024 will be remembered as the year of one of the most tumultuous elections ever in American history. No matter which candidate you chose to support, nonstop marketing efforts were coming from both campaigns. The influence certainly showed in the promo industry, as we predicted in last year’s year in review. ASI announced yard signs as its 2024 Product of the Year. While not as flashy as the Stanley Tumbler from 2023, it’s hard to argue with the logic. Elections need promo, just as they have been since George Washington’s inauguration.
Return of the Catalog
Digital fatigue is real. After years of everything moving online, consumers are rediscovering the charm and convenience of physical catalogs. In 2024, catalogs made a comeback as a way to engage audiences in a tactile, memorable way. Amazon, Walmart, Target and many other retailers released a holiday catalog for consumers to flip through and find the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family. A recent ASI article explored how promo companies too will find value in having a tangible representation of their products.
Back to Home Cooking
As inflation continues to influence spending habits, many people are returning to the kitchen, finding joy and savings in home cooking. For brands, this is a golden opportunity to tap into a trend emphasizing community, wellness and creativity. Pairing products with thoughtful packaging and messaging that highlights their practicality ensures they’ll be used often — and seen regularly. Food-related promos connect with audiences on a personal level, creating a positive memory tied to everyday moments.
Influencer Impact
Much like the “Taylor Swift Effect” on the music industry and beyond, social media influencers will continue to inform the trends of the promotional products market. Influencers have promo professionals looking at the broader appeal of experiences and nostalgia. The rise of Stanley can be attributed to this and the recent shift to the Owala brand. We will simply have to sit back and watch to see what emerges as the new products to watch in 2025.
The new year will be full of opportunity and innovation in the promo world. The key to success lies in understanding and embracing these trends. Stay tuned to Vernon Promotions for insights and products to keep your brand ahead of the game.
