Giveaways that don’t end up in the bin.

Promotional products are a powerful way to make your brand memorable, but only when they are done right. We’ve all seen low-effort swag that’s flimsy, irrelevant, or ends up straight in the bin. The key is choosing items that are both useful and well-designed, reflecting the quality and values of your company.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes promotional merchandise effective and suggest product ideas that your clients, staff, or event guests will actually want to keep and use.

Why quality always wins

Branded merchandise is often someone’s first tangible interaction with your brand. A low-quality keyring or pen might get ignored, but a thoughtfully chosen item, something that is useful, stylish or sustainable, can create a positive and lasting impression.

It’s not just about getting your logo out there; it’s about delivering value in the form of something people genuinely appreciate.

What makes promotional products work?

• Relevance: Products that fit the audience and occasion
• Practicality: Something people can use in daily life
• Design quality: Branding that’s well-applied, clear and tasteful
• Durability: Items that last beyond one event

High-quality promotional items can increase brand recall, build loyalty, and reflect your professionalism.

Design tips: Less is more

• Avoid clutter: A clean design often looks more professional than bold, oversized branding.
• Be consistent: Use your brand’s correct colours, fonts and logo placements.
• Think packaging: A custom branded box can elevate even a simple item into a premium experience.

Popular branded merchandise ideas

Here are a few customer favourites that we recommend:

1. Insulated Drink Bottles

Stylish, sustainable and endlessly reusable. These stainless steel bottles keep drinks cold or hot for hours and are perfect for desks, commutes and events. Your brand stays visible on the go.

Ideal for: Client gifts, staff packs or eco-conscious campaigns.

View our range of Drinkware

2. Eco-Friendly Ballpoint Bamboo Pens

An upgrade from your average giveaway pen. These feel great to write with and align with sustainability goals. Paired with a branded notepad, they’re perfect for meetings and welcome packs.

Ideal for: Conferences, schools or recruitment packs.

View our range of Pens and Writing Sets

3. Reusable Tote Bags

These are high-quality fabric bags with a great print area. Whether it’s for daily use or an event giveaway, they offer strong brand visibility and are genuinely useful.

Ideal for: Events, charities or retail promotions.

View our range of Tote Bags

4. Branded Mugs with Cork Bases

A desk essential! Our ceramic mugs with cork bases are practical and attractive, with ample space for branding. A useful, everyday item your audience will see every morning.

Ideal for: Staff welcome packs, conferences or client gifts.

View our range of Standard and Insulated Mugs

5. Compact Power Banks

Great for tech-savvy audiences or people on the move, power banks are consistently one of the most appreciated branded gifts. We offer sleek, high-capacity options with full branding.

Ideal for: Tech events, student campaigns or client thank-you packs.

View our range of Power Banks

6. Laptop Backpacks

Designed for the modern hybrid worker, this sleek, padded backpack keeps laptops safe on the move. With compartments for tech, water bottles and daily essentials, it’s a smart, everyday carry option.

Ideal for: Staff welcome packs, remote teams or high-value client gifts.

View our range of Laptop and Tablet Bags

7. Branded welcome packs and gift sets

Why not create your own Swag Box? Whether you’re welcoming new team members, thanking loyal clients, or making a splash at an event, our branded swag packs are designed to impress.

Each set includes high-quality, practical items that can be customised with your logo, colours or message. All items are professionally printed and carefully packed by the Doggett team.

Not sure how your logo will look best? That’s where we come in.

Working with Doggett Promotional

We don’t just print. We help you create promotional products that look great and align with your brand values. From design advice to product selection and delivery, we handle every step with care and creativity.

✅ High-quality merchandise     ✅ Professional design support
✅ Sustainable options available      ✅ Hands-on service from start to finish

Let’s make your next batch of merchandise unforgettable!

View our Corporate and Promotional Gift Catalogue 2025.

View our Sustainable Gifting Catalogue 2025.

Get in touch with Doggett Promotional to create useful, beautifully branded products your audience will love.