In our fast-paced, distraction filled world, branded merchandise stands as one of the most powerful tools to create lasting bonds.
Your merchandise is more than just a product with a logo or a picture on a screen—it’s a tangible piece of your brand’s story and an opportunity to create a lasting connection.
SUMMARY
- Humans are primarily driven by a need for connection and belonging
- Promotional items have the power to create stronger connections than other advertising methods
- If you want your product to achieve its goals, you need to think about connection from day one of the planning process
- Inck has a 20-year track record of delivering quality products that foster deep connections
At Inck, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we take the time to ensure that we’re the perfect fit for your brand and, most importantly, your audience. When you hand us a brief, one of the things we start by thinking about is the simple concept of connection.
Why connection matters
According to researcher and storyteller Brené Brown, “Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued.” Brown says that having a strong sense of connection and belonging is a fundamental human need that drives a great deal of our behaviour. However, she also warns of a “crisis of disconnection” in modern society thanks to screens and social media. This is a gap brands and businesses have the opportunity to bridge with the help of thoughtful and meaningful service, content and campaigns.
When it comes to campaigns that connect, promotional products make sense. Unlike fleeting digital ads or eye-catching supermarket displays, promotional items are tangible gifts that people can hold, use and appreciate. A gift, no matter how small, can make someone feel important and valued, much more than a TikTok video or email.
Give someone a well-chosen, fit-for-purpose promotional item and it will become a part of their daily life (statistics say 53% of consumers will utilise a promotional gift). Whether it’s a branded pen or a unique, carefully designed item that stands out thanks to its striking visual design, the impact goes far beyond a simple visual impression. It’s a constant reminder of your brand, and it fosters familiarity and trust. More importantly, it shows your customers, partners or fans that you’ve gone the extra mile to establish a meaningful connection.
This sense of connection can create a powerful sense of reciprocity, encouraging your audience to engage more deeply. The simple act of giving can break down barriers, making people more receptive to your message and laying the foundation for a long-term relationship.
Creating products that truly connect
Promotional merchandise that genuinely connects with an audience always starts with a deep understanding of who they are.
What are your audience’s preferences, interests and daily needs? The more you know about them, the better you can tailor your items to feel as though they were made specifically for them. It’s not just about choosing the right item—though that’s certainly important—it’s also about the details: the colours, the design, and even how your logo is incorporated into the packaging. The first impression should always say, “This was created just for you.”
A fantastic example of a product that connects with multiple generations and many times over is Westfield’s Christmas headbands. Released during the festive season when families are out shopping and looking for holiday cheer, these headbands delight a younger audience. In turn, this strengthens Westfield’s connection with one of its primary audiences—parents.
Whether it’s a fan treasuring their Taylor Swift memorabilia or a visitor cherishing a memento from the Australian Open, great promotional merchandise isn’t just kept—it’s treasured.
At Inck, we understand that good merchandise connects, while bad merchandise can do damage and cause someone to disconnect from a brand. With nearly 20 years of experience in the art and the science of branded merchandise, we’ve honed our approach to ensure that every piece we create resonates with its audience.
If you’re considering an investment in branded merch and you want to make a real connection with your clients, we’re here to guide you. A conversation with us costs nothing, but the value we bring could make all the difference. Let’s start your journey with Inck today.
