Oct 16, 2017

The Art of Gift Giving: How to Select Meaningful Gifts for Your Clients

Hey there! Ping here. Unbelievably, the holidays are upon us, and it’s time to seriously start thinking about your client gifts.

Any time is the right time to show your clients how much you appreciate their business, but the holiday season is the time of year when it’s most appropriate. That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that your clients will be receiving gifts from several vendors. So how can you ensure your gift stands out from the rest? As you close out the final quarter of the year, we want to ensure your brand leaves a lasting impression this season.

When selecting gifts for your clients, there are three key things to consider.

Practicality. Before you order a gift, ask yourself: Is this something my client will need or something I want them to use for my benefit? If you stick with choosing a gift that your client needs or that will be used to improve his or her life, your gift will have more impact and lasting power. A great example is a rechargeable power bank or a Bluetooth speaker.

Relevance. Take note of what is relevant in your client’s industry. Think back to conversations, emails, news articles, or even social media posts the client has discussed or shared about industry trends. This is a good way to give a gift that isn’t too personal and keeps the business relationship at the forefront. Your attention to detail will leave a lasting impression.

Cost. According to Advertising Specialty Institute, the average cost per customer/prospect is $43 (and that’s up by $10 per person year over year). Know your budget for each client before you decide. It will make the process easier.

Here are some more cool ideas:

Food basket, candy tower, or wine packaged in keepsake containers with your brand
Apparel that can be used as activewear or outerwear
Handcrafted leather items such as planners, notepads, and sketchbooks
Travel bags and accessories
Gift sets customized for sports lovers, wine lovers, and everything in between

There is no time like the present to show your clients you care. Do it with a meaningful gift customized by The Icebox. Contact our Creative Experts today to start the conversation.

Sources:
https://www.asicentral.com/news/press/press-releases/november-2014/asi-says-corporate-gift-giving-trending-more-nice-than-naughty/

Oct 3, 2017

Stay Warm and Look Cool with Outerwear

While everyone may own a jacket or hat that was purchased from a retail brand, the likelihood of a consumer owning outerwear from a business he or she patronizes is slim. In fact, only 50% of U.S. consumers own promotional outerwear. This is a major opportunity for your brand to stand out in a creative way.

The 2016 impressions study by the Advertising Specialties Institute shows that outerwear is kept longer than other promotional products because it is useful, attractive and enjoyable to have. More importantly, nearly half of outwear recipients are willing to do business with the advertiser and almost 90% think favorably about the advertiser after receiving outerwear.

Fall is officially here, but there is still time left to order branded outerwear before the weather gets cold.

Jackets
When you think of outerwear, jackets come to mind. No matter where you are located, options for size, style and material make jackets the perfect choice for different climates, customers, and budgets. (When in doubt, buy fleece.)

Jackets also happen to have the best brand impression of any outerwear product. Nearly 85% of people who own promotional jackets can recall the logos on them.

Hoodies
You can also consider a hoodie or sweatshirt. These items are comfortable and still have the perfect amount of space for your logo, message, or artwork.

Beanies
Beanies have been trending in sports merchandise and are increasingly popular in apparel. There are many ways to customize beanies to your brand and target audience. Whether you are selling them in a gift shop or giving them away at an event, you will remain top of mind!

Scarves
Add some color and fun to any outfit with a promotional scarf made of wool, fleece, cotton, or polyester. It can be paired as a set with a beanie and/or gloves. Whatever you decide, your employees and customers will be happy to carry it along wherever they go for winter and fall.

Gloves
Put your brand in good hands. Buy custom gloves for sports, safety, gardening, or a cold day. They can be made with acrylic, cotton, fleece, leather, and more.

Whatever your outwear needs, count on the creative experts at The Icebox to ensure your clients look cool while staying warm!

Sources:
https://www.asicentral.com/asp/open/Research/impressionsstudy/Impressions-Study-outerwear.aspx
http://www.asicentral.com/downloads/public/impressionstudy/impressions-study-2014.pdf https://media.asicentral.com/resources/impressions-study-2016.pdf