There’s no denying that the busy holiday season and fiscal year deadlines are right around the corner. We may still be enjoying the last bit of summer, but it’s time to think about upcoming holiday branded merchandise needs for both customers and your employees.
With more than 30 years in business, we’ve been around the corporate holiday block a time or two. We developed this handy guide to help you get ahead, avoid common ordering issues, and have a smooth experience when ordering your branded holiday gifts in the coming weeks and months ahead.
Upcoming Holidays & Events
The next few months are full of holidays, events, and opportunities to show off your brand with themed products and cozy, seasonal merchandise. Here are just a few upcoming celebrations (and deadlines) and branded holiday gift ideas to keep in mind.
Labor Day (September 2, 2024)
Labor day celebrates contributions of American workers and symbolically marks the end of summer for a lot of families. It’s a great opportunity for employee appreciation gifts and outdoor focused merchandise.
Ideas:
- Giveaway customized outdoor gear like coolers, fanny packs, and picnic blankets for end of summer fun.
- Pass out branded can koozies, fans, and bottle openers at local Labor Day parades and gatherings.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October)
About 13% of women in the United States — or 1 in 8 — will experience breast cancer, including your customers, employees, and their loved ones. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is a great time for your business to show support and help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
Ideas:
- Pass out pink promotional products like water bottles, bags, and T-shirts, to customers and team members.
- Wear awareness ribbons to boost understanding, fundraising, and research for breast cancer.
Halloween (October 31, 2024)
We love Halloween and all the fun that comes with it! While the focus is generally on costumes and candy, don’t forget about branded merchandise opportunities for your business. As you participate in Halloween festivities in the office and throughout the community, keep your brand front and center.
Ideas:
- Supply branded bags and buckets for collecting candy and other goodies.
- Pass out branded pens and stress balls for Trick-or-Treaters in addition to candy.
- Supply branded flashlights or glow-in-the-dark swag for nighttime visibility.
Veterans Day (November 11, 2024)
Veterans Day is all about honoring your team members and customers who have bravely served our country. Show how much you appreciate their sacrifice and show your company’s commitment to supporting veterans.
- Consider specialty gift sets or commemorative items for veterans on your team.
- Show support with military-themed flags, pins, and apparel.
Thanksgiving (November 28, 2024)
Thanksgiving is all about celebrating gratitude and togetherness, which makes it the perfect time to show gratitude for the employees and customers who’ve gotten you through the ups and downs of the years.
Ideas:
- Give your team or customers gratitude journals to help express themselves.
- Supply branded aprons to use for seasonal cooking and holiday meal prep.
- Show appreciation with seasonal decor or cozy items like branded blankets, flannel, and candles.
Black Friday & Small Business Saturday (November 29-30, 2024)
Who’s ready to shop? We are! These major shopping days are a great way to showcase your brand in a positive way, appreciate loyal customers, and build name recognition throughout the community.
Ideas:
- Showcase your sustainability focus with reusable branded shopping bags.
- Keep customers and team members hydrated during busy shopping days with branded water bottles and reusable tumblers.
Holidays (End of December)
With Christmas (December 25, 2024), Kwanzaa (December 26-January 1, 2024), Hanukkah (December 25-January 2, 2024), and New Year’s Eve festivities, there’s a lot going on at the end of the year. From corporate gifts for employees, clients, and partners to company Christmas parties and customer appreciation events, there’s plenty of opportunities to showcase your brand in a unique, fun way.
Ideas:
- Get in the spirit with branded ornaments, ribbons, and other seasonal decor for your office or holiday party.
- Surprise your employees or customers with luxury gift sets.
- Keep everyone warm and toasty during the holiday season with branded sweaters, jackets, and winter hats.
Ensure Holiday Success With These Branded Merchandise Tips
Ready to launch your seasonal branded merchandise campaign? We’ve got your back! Check out these tips to ensure your branded holiday corporate gifts go off without a hitch and help you reach your business goals.
Plan Early
With increased orders and many people taking time off during the holiday season, planning ahead for your branded merchandise needs is crucial. Keep time your friend by planning orders at least 6-8 weeks in advance. This timeframe helps ensure timely delivery, minimizes risk of delays and out-of-stock items, and most importantly gives Strategies ample time to help you find the right product for your brand.
Consider Packaging & Presentation
Think beyond corporate gifts, events, and giveaways and consider the overall presentation. Seasonal and branded packaging can enhance perceived brand value and help your gift stand out. From custom gift boxes and mailers to branded tape and tissue paper, our team can help you find ways to elevate the unboxing experience during the holiday season.
Focus on Brand Consistency
No matter what or how you’re celebrating, keep a consistent theme across all your holiday branded merchandise to reinforce brand recognition. From corporate holiday parties to freebies and giveaways for customers, we’ll work with you to create a cohesive look that incorporates festive or seasonal decor and colors while staying true to your brand’s palette.
Set Up a Company Store
A company store is a great way to ensure everyone gets what they want this holiday season. Rather than guessing on what promotional products your team would like or what apparel size works best, let team members pick their preferences. With a company store, you can pick a selection of on-brand corporate apparel and merchandise for your team members to select from via online ordering, simplifying the process and ensuring satisfaction.
Communication is Key
From your business goals to important dates and deadlines, communication is key to a successful holiday branded merchandise campaign. At Strategies Ltd., we’re all about good communication — and we’ve made it part of our process. From our initial questionnaire and onboarding process to frequent check-ins with your team, we strive to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Start Your Holiday Planning Today
Now is the time to start planning for the holiday season. Contact us today to get started.
