There's something special about receiving a gift, especially when it's something you'll genuinely use and enjoy.
Branded products do more then simply display your logo. A thoughtful, high quality branded item creates a positive experience and makes people feel valued. Whether it's a cozy hoodie, reusable water bottle, tote bag, or coffee tumbler, useful branded items naturally become part of everyday life and your brand becomes part of that experience.
PPAI's Product Power 2026 consumer study, conducted among more than 5,000 respondents, highlights an important shift in how people view promotional merchandise. Consumers increasingly connect branded products with personal relevance, great design, and emotional connection. The result? The brands that stand out are the ones creating merchandise people are genuinely excited to receive and proud to use.
The findings are compelling. 83% of consumers say receiving a branded product makes them feel appreciated, while 90% say it improves their perception of the brand. Nearly three-quarters (72%) also associate branded merchandise with positive emotions such as pride, belonging and gratitude.
That emotional connection matters. When branded products are useful, well-designed and thoughtfully chosen, it's more likely to be kept, used, and remembered.
The best branded products aren't just giveaways, they're gifts that create connection.
Give people something they'll love to keep and your brand will stay with them!