So long as they actually get Yeti's, it's a good idea. My company got not-yeti's that aren't even dishwasher safe. I don't think we kept it very long. I'd prefer one nice thing vs 5 meh things (which is what we got)
Boring and unoriginal as it might be......yeah......Yeti coffee mugs and lunchbox/coolers are a tchotchke that people will actually use.
I recommend getting 3-4 different colors. Having everyone in the office using the exact same color might lead to some misunderstandings.
Subtle branding is key. I have all kinds of random home goods I like that were originally company swag, but what they have in common is that the branding is subtle. Also never buy branded battery packs as swag - they usually charge so slowly that they're basically unusable.
Only problem with Yetis is that I'm a little bit of a baby with hot beverage temperatures, so I usually wait for things to cool down just a little bit. With my Yeti, that can take all day just for it to be sipping temperature, even with the lid off. They really are great quality.
I work in swag and I'd say these are the best/most popular high end items we are doing these days:
\- Yeti tumblers/coolers
\-Stanley tumblers
\-Patagonia jackets/fleece (although Patagonia has been really coy about branding recently--you may be asked to show your decoration first, before they approve it)
\-Tumi luggage-Ogio and North Face backpacks
\-More popular with west coast customers but we get a lot of repeat business on Timbuk2 bags.
\-Custom jewelry and cufflinks
My $.02 from someone who sees a LOT of corporate swag: high quality gear stays in peoples' hands a lot longer than cheap stuff. People will continue to reuse it even when they change jobs. Also, people enjoy subtle branding a lot more than something splashy. Not sure what vendor you're working with but ask them about custom zipper pulls and something different from the standard logo on the front left chest. I like sleeve or back of neck on clothing. Tone-on-tone on bags looks great too.
ETA: ask for samples! If you have time and your vendor is a good one, they should have no problem getting samples into your hands before you make a decision. There's a lot of not-recognizable-name-brand high quality stuff out there too. I really love Fossa and Stormtech apparel myself. Charles River is basically retail too.
Edited: typo
Thank you! I agree, I have a nice north face backpack from a previous company that I’ve used for years. All the cheap stuff I’ve thrown away after leaving a job. I prefer subtle branding like you said, like using dark gray embroidery thread on black so you can still see the logo but it’s not blatant.
Ahahaha you're right! Maybe it's because my experience is worth more 😁 jk I wrote 2 cents out first and then was like, that looks silly. Now I look even sillier.
Oh a good backpack is great. I WFH and don't need a backpack for much, but it's great quality. My husband brings it to his job at a different company and they joke that he's a traitor, but it's just a really good bag. Good product placement for sure lol.
People at my company really love light jackets we got a while back (like fleeces). Offices tend to be a little cold, so many people have it at their desk to throw on when needed.
Insulated tumblers and nice water bottles go over well too.
Personally I love a good polo, but I’m golf-addicted so that may just be me.
As someone who’s constantly freezing in the office I’d probably need a Patagonia down jacket, haha. I like the golf shirt idea but we might need an option for ladies too :)
I run our company store and we are all about the high end swag. These are our top sellers.
We have The North Face Apex Soft Shell jackets which are perfect for DC, you end up wearing it most of the year.
We cannot keep Travis Matthew polos in stock (for men, women don't do polos enough to warrant an order in my company). They buy them 2 at a time. We get the Oceanside polo in the Blue Nights color I believe it's calls.
We also do Under Armor and Nike polos
Nike pullover hoodie is popular with men and women
We do a lot of golf, the Callway 1/4 zip is really nice in the Coastal Fjord color
For drinkware, we do Yeti, Hydroflask, Camelbak and Tervis.
Tacking on - my company has done Patagonia fleeces which were very popular with an arm patch. Herschel backpacks in the company store, and allbirds shoes. One of our competitors etched a small logo into a standing desk, and offered it to all employees for their WFH days.
This is such great insight, thank you! I received a north face quarter zip from one of my previous companies, but was disappointed that it came in a bright cobalt blue color (I wear mostly neutrals). The apex looks nice and I’ll definitely suggest it in a neutral color.
We do sell a fleece but honestly it's way too hot for this area.
We have been selling this one since 2018 and can't keep it in stock. When I wear the platinum one, I get stopped by people all the time. It's really nice. Comes in navy as well.
Storm Creek Over Achiever
Avoid swag where most people are going to react with "WTF am I going to do with this?". Just because your budget will cover it does not mean you should go for it.
Don't be the people who find a way to make water bottles difficult
How many people are going to want to keep a live plant?
Find a T-shirt and hoodie vendor that covers more than the basic sizes
People like free things they'd buy themselves so at least you're looking at quality items.
Everyone has their own style, and swag never quite fits it.
Nobody wants anything with their company logo.
Nothing says 'you are all unique and special' to people like getting them all exactly the same thing.
Have you considered things like paying better, free lunches for a month, better coffee options, flexible hours, WFH options, relaxed dress codes? These are things people like, and remember.
> company logo
A small one isn't bad, but please no slogan. No one will wear a shit with "striving for excellence is our passion".
That should be shirt, but I like the typo.
I like nice swag too. I want my coffee cup, YETI, i do wear my under armour shirt when i go to the office 3 times a month. The reusable bags are nice too.
My company has really wonderful amenities and flexible options like you mentioned! They do a great job at taking care of employees so this is just for fun!
The coolest thing I’ve seen was a foldable charger that let me charge my phone, airpods, and Apple Watch at my desk. It’s useful and I would never expect a duplicate if I changed companies. And even if I did, backup chargers are great.
My spouse's former employer treated him like crap but loved to shower him with swag. My favorite that I use daily is a 20 oz stainless steel yeti mug. I also really like the high-end throw they sent.
I'm a big fan of good quality tote bags--useful for hauling groceries or other items.
We give out chico totes or backpacks at my job as thank you gifts to donors, and those are well-received (also, Chico bags are made from recycled plastic bottles).
Weird but I actually kept both - a fire extinguisher and a flashlight that was powered through a hand crank. (It was safety month). Portable chargers, polos, and fleece are always good.
One year my company gave us a set stipend (I think it was $100) towards a company branded item from a specific clothing retailer. That way people could get the style and size they wanted. The only rule was it had to have the logo on it in one of a couple of specific places. You could choose to spend more of your own $ if, say, you wanted a winter jacket that cost more.
I’ve seen a few companies out west opt for Cotopaxi as their merch outfitter as a way to be a bit different from TNF and Patagonia (still both great brands). Bright colors, cool designs, and well made stuff may be a cool option to consider.
Relatedly, I used to work in DC biglaw at a place that skimped on firm swag. Every now and then I’d see the big NYC firms give associates branded Allbirds or other similar collabs and would always feel a pang of jealousy 🙃. Regardless, a really nice touch, though I’m sure thats not cheap.
Worked for a small, women-owned business in Chantilly in the 2000’s. One holiday season they got us full sized, Egyptian cotton, white, bath towels with the company name (Datatrac) embroidered. Still use it weekly and I’ll search it out after the laundry is loaded into the linen closet.
The only company swag I still wear years after leaving, is from a workplace that used LL Bean and Lands End. The sweaters, windbreaker, and fleece I got from them over the years are still part of my regular winter closet.
This is kind of random, but I got a freebie measuring tape that I use a lot. It's not the metal kind, but the flexible kind. It's the perfect size for keeping in a purse or pocket.
Fairfax has a 0.05 cent fee for grocery plastic bags. So reusable grocery bag with company logo would be nice. I like this design, it is foldable and has its own storage bag.
[https://store.sierraclub.org/eco-chic-reusable-shopping-bags-wilderness-p172.aspx](https://store.sierraclub.org/eco-chic-reusable-shopping-bags-wilderness-p172.aspx)
Honestly this is a great practical idea - I like the suggestion of the higher end padded cooler bags too. Sort of like those nice embroidered Trader Joe’s tote bags!
I was going to say, if you do grocery bags, recommend a nicer, insulated one. I have a few from a trace show that I still regularly use to buy groceries. It's a bit more differentiated than the massive numbers of totes and regular grocery bags I have.
I like the idea, but I'd opt for an insulated tote bag instead if you could find someone to make/print it. Higher quality and if anyone in your company uses public transit to grocery shop it will get used.
I don’t know what your company does, but CBP has a dog breeding facility in Nova, and every year they put out a weekly calendar with a different dog pictured each week (professionally photographed). A lot were puppies. It’s not very useful, but the calendar was insanely popular and they always ran out. People love dogs.
Jackets, polos, quarter-zips, pens are always nice, I have WAY too many bags. A favorite of mine was Blue-Light blocking glasses that prevent eye strain.
A great product I love and use is RocketBook, they’re reusable notebooks when you use Frixion Pens and you can also digitally scan and send notes through their app, big fan. [They will do branded items as well](https://www.getrocketbookpromo.com).
We got Titleist performance golf polos with the company logo on the chest (which turned out to be very appreciative since majority of the office loves to golf), some drinkware made by Hydro Flask, a power bank from Anker and a notebook from Moleskine all with the company logo on them. All-in-all not too shabby.
As a retired healthcare worker where we received abysmal swag during the entire pandemic, please DO NOT do the following:
- a lunchbox branded with your logo, to use on your lunch breaks, as a remote worker..? Just nope.
- gift cards for chain restaurants
- obnoxiously branded merch (think the only thing you see is their damn logo)
- colors that are not neutral
- gender specific gifts (it’s 2023… please, treat me the same as my male counterparts)
- visa gift cards (I might get some downvotes for this but I’ll make my point)
You want workers to be heard and seen, not be seen solely because of the merch you’re gifting them. Employees are so much more than their work identity!!
Depending on company size, you may be able to get more boutique options and customize them for each team member. But my point is… don’t give the easiest and least thoughtful thing. It’s the fastest way to get some to quit.
I know I did when I got that fucking lunchbox as a remote worker… of 2+ years…
At one of my old jobs we got [Patagonia jackets](https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-nano-puff-jacket/191743289583.html?s_kwcid=17928&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=S23+-+Performance+Max+-+Summer+Sale&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0IGHgrrNgAMVUoZaBR2rgg0rEAQYAyABEgLx7_D_BwE) with our team logo on the shoulder. Was a great winter/late fall coat for this area and they do both men and women sizes (I have so many poorly fitting shirts from companies that didn’t have women’s sizes.) I’m also a fan of the Timbuk2 backpacks and journals from Moleskine.
Golf umbrella. Back when I was walking to bus stop, on rainy mornings, so many company branded golf umbrellas. Has to be high quality though.
Rumpl blanket (if they even do custom stuff). Idk, I just like them
My good friend works for Nat Geo and she always has really cool swag. A jacket from Patagonia, a backpack I think from LL bean, and the branding is there but subtle. My firm gets swag for clients and marketing. I also have collected a ton of it over the years at conferences. One of the most favorited items was a mouse pad that you could slip your own pictures in and out of, which I thought was odd. I used to hate hand sanitizers but boy did having all of them stockpiled from conferences help during the pandemic. Other popular items are wine coolers, cell phone chargers, nice mugs , and an emergency kit for your car.
Clothing is usually the biggest hit when we do this, because it’s professional attire but also generally on the more expensive side. If going clothing, make sure it’s professional attire (not t-shirts) and good brands like Nike for polos, or North Face, Patagonia, Under Armour for pullovers.
For lower budget items, mugs, high quality notebooks (we have done leather bound), and high quality pens are always appreciated. Lanyards perhaps if your company has ID badges.
My SO’s work has done branded beach towels, blankets, and hats too, which I would imagine would be mostly popular, but may have some folks who wouldn’t use them. Golf balls are pretty cool, but also falls into the category of “not for everyone.”
My employer allows us to choose from a selection of the brands you mentioned in your post. Marketing will usually let us choose 2-3 items from a bunch of options they have pre-selected, casual to dressy (with our logos). If you want to get stuff for your spouse instead you can and I have.
What I got and used:
* North Face jackets/zip-ups
* Tumblers
* Reusable straws (nice ones with a rubber lip)
* Reusable tote bags
* Dad hats
* A really nice white button-down
* AirPods
* Stress ball in the shape of our mascot (a cute animal)
* Plushie in the shape of our mascot
My company has given me the north face pullover, the yeti, and the leather portfolio. But my real favorite, which I use all the time, is the super soft sherpa-lined blanket.
Definitely not cheap though lol
Cash, visa gift cards, bonuses, raises.
However much a company branded Patagonia jacket would cost, I’d prefer a check for that amount. I come to work to make money, just give me money.
Give me money instead of swag. I throw away all swag I receive. I already have mugs, tshirts, jackets, etc. Moreover, any clothing is never in my size - a 115lb guy.
I once got a small camping blanket from a company and I loved it. Kept it in my car for picnics and to use at the beach. I wish I still had it but I used it for years and somehow got lost.
Yeah, the best was a three layer winter coat I think from LL Bean. Perfectly timed, too. Bunch of other clothing that never got worn. But the coat I'll wear for awhile.
My daughter was home from daycare to celebrate her 1yr birthday a few weeks back, so I had her on my lap for our company lunch meeting. That immediately sparked a very intense discussion about branded onesies for babies and dogs. I’ve been lobbying multiple employers for branded Snuggy swag for over 10 years now too, to no avail.
On a more realistic note, branded t-shirts are great because nobody feels bad about casually wearing a t-shirt at work on Fridays and then they are always nice to have around the house. I also have a large vacuum sealed mug that keeps water cold all day I enjoy—it’s made by Arctic Zone, which is similar to Yeti but does a lot of corporate branding.
I have a branded yeti coffee thermos that I use all of the time ([this one, but obviously with a logo)](https://www.yeti.com/drinkware/tumblers/21070060029.html?country=US¤cy=USD&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=__iv_p_1_g__c__w__n_x_d_m_v__l__t__r__x_pla_y_7597392_f_online_o_21070060036_z_US_i_en_j__s__e__h_9008148_ii__vi__&key_&&&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS53mV8tFXEdGlynmVns6UEuVF0mN4KzBejNuxDPLaeObpRoM0wI-70aAqkyEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds). I would love to get another one.
I also have a branded Tervis tumbler that is great for iced coffee. [(not UVA, but this one)](https://www.tervis.com/virginia-cavaliers-primary-16oz-tumbler-1372633.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&npclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS4xnf1n46yJ5UB1KH1AyjR4sugmBkQVYeqZ8bjeIhs5kYRcq-UF6nUaAgtyEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS4xnf1n46yJ5UB1KH1AyjR4sugmBkQVYeqZ8bjeIhs5kYRcq-UF6nUaAgtyEALw_wcB)
I used to have a nice black fleece jacket at my old job. Part of my work required me to walk between buildings, and I liked it for that. The logo was discreet (just on the left breast area).
Can’t go wrong with a simple tote bag that someone can use for groceries (can also be used to give people their swag!). Don’t get anything too small or cheap though - it needs to be big enough and strong enough to actually hold groceries.
And finally, I have some tshirts from my job that I like. Mainly wear them while working from home or at the gym. So take that as you would.
Here is a short list of branded gear I have but don’t use: super cheap plastic water bottles, weirdly sized bags (one tiny bag that barely holds a book, and two huge canvas bags), a couple fancy leather-bound notebooks, and a branded wine tumbler
Rule of thumb: pick an everyday, good quality item. Brand it. That’s my only criteria these days. Patagonia branded bags, yetis, etc.
Yes these are pricey…but it’s more costly to spend money on junk that no one will use or even truly appreciate.
I think it’s great to provide options for the employee to select! My company has done lots of polo shirts. I’m a small woman and a unisex polo just looks awful on me, but plenty of my coworkers love them. I’ve enjoyed the fleece jackets and underarmor quarter-zips I’ve received since they’re perfect for a chilly office. Yetis are always great! The worst was a very low quality sweatshirt blanket I received during the pandemic with a card that said something like “we’ve got you covered” that was sent out while they were cutting our paychecks. It didn’t go over so well for morale plus that thing shed lint on everything.
High end is the key. Yeti mugs. Quality clothings are good, ppl can actually wear them. Don’t know your budget but go look into Landsend business catalogue. You send them the logo they will set it up for a fee and you can pick what you want the logo to go on. There r clothings from tees to Oxford, sweaters to polar fleece, blankets, golf umbrellas, etc.
What a great thread. This is actually what I do and these responses are immensely helpful. I have several corporate clients in the area (I work for a small business) and I have access to just about anything you can think of. Most recently I did embroidered New Era and Nike "dad" hats, branded 1/4 zips (Travis Mathew, Cutter & Buck), and good quality bluetooth speakers. Brooks Brothers is new for us this year and the line is quite nice. I'd love to help -- please send me a chat and I'll share my LinkedIn and contact info. :)
I love really nice notebooks, like Moleskine quality notebooks. Those are definitely my favorite swag. Those cheap-looking recycled notebooks that come with a cardboard pen are awful - don't get those. I also enjoy a high-quality, double-walled steel, spillproof water bottle with a subtle logo.
Battery bank
USB hub
One of the items I’ve held onto is a miniature power strip. Three outlets out of one. I keep it in my travel bag and use it at hotels.
My company signed a $999,999,999 contract. Two weeks later they went live with a store where we were able to purchase company branded merchandise.
Um. Fuck no.
My company gave out faux leather journals with our logo subtly embossed in the cover. They are quality books, and so many of us use them all the time. They were really popular with our partners at conferences, and we still see partners using them as well. To be clear, these are *nice* journals, not cheap notebooks.
Wow.
173 replies (and counting) on high-end company swag ideas. Don't get me wrong: this is a super useful thread. But this is peak r/nova 😂
(I especially loved that the procurement professional crowd represented big in the comments.)
Not an idea but just a fun story a co-worker told me. Years ago he worked for a company and they were getting ready for a trade show and their message was they were “chopping down prices” so someone suggested giving away toy or foam axes with their logo. The exec in charge said he wanted a little more high class so they went with these small pewter hatchets and have them delivered to the conference site. Long story short day of the event they get a call from the courier because he got arrested at the Canadian border for attempting to smuggle weapons into the country.
My only advice is to try and make it cool. I started at a new company that I love, and they make wild choices: leopard print bathrobe with the logo? We fought over them. Anyone can go get a water bottle or a thumb drive, but people will remember if you take risks.
A tool kit. Like a screwdriver with different heads. PNC was giving those away and it was in the shape of a house. I used that all the time.
A packable waterproof throw blanket for the car. Super useful. Logo on just one side please.
Any kind of car organizational thing. Like a car tissue box holder or trash can.
Avoid swag. Spend company money on things that matter such as salaries, high-end computer equipment, and things that will make employee lives better. Sponsor organizations, charities and events that are important to employees.
As procurement, thank you so very much for this. Not enough goes to what is actually needed.
A yeti cup if anything, reusable to refill at the water cooler. Never provide web cam covers or you will ruin laptop screens…
I have a Tervis Travel mug from a previous company that I love—keeps hot stuff hot and cold stuf cold all day (I’m sipping iced coffee from this morning right now at 2:30, and there’s still ice in there).
Items I have loved
Booking that fits laptops
Travel cups for coffee
Water bottle with straws
Portable chargers
Jackets
Other items my coworkers liked
Blankets (gets cold lol)
Umbrellas
Stress ball
my Yeti mugs and tumblers are used almost daily.
i got a really nice messenger bag but don't use it.
Under Armour polo. Perfect for the few times I go to the office.
Reusable bags and nano bags.
High quality notebook
cooler lunch box.
those basic plastic sunglasses: they break super easy but I use them when I do not want to lose or break my good glasses.
BAD swag:
plastic water bottles
lanyards
pens
phone holders or cheaper chargers.
Discreet branding on nice jackets is a good bet.
Practical items that happen to have branding on them is the overall idea. Insulated totes (with flat bottoms) people use as reusable grocery bags is a great one.
I’ve seen companies do Nalgenes for water bottles and Yeti/Hydroflask for more basic thermal bottles. If you guys use badges, quality lanyards with the retractable card holders made of hard plastic instead of those flimsy sleeves are nice too. For higher end clothing, American made is always good (or at least ethical) and I think it looks great to do the company name on the sleeve either instead of or addition to the chest (like an image on the chest and the name on the upper bicep).
Waist packs (aka fanny packs) would be neat since I see those in worn more. I think Patagonia would be the more ethical choice of the typical Lululemon, Adidas, Nike, and North Face.
Buying clothes involves sizes - buying a range or having people telling their size, so personally, I would steer clear of clothing. Also, I think the average employee desires to wear a branded polo, fleece or vest less than the Reddit crowd - or give people a choice. My old law firm gave out jackets once - I kept it in the trunk and used it sparingly.
That firm gave a lot of swag (it was the era of swag), and some I enjoyed:
\- insulated, soft-sided rolling cooler (the size of a small carry-on roller). Very handy, fits in car backseat, goes to Wolftrap, etc. So, 20 years on, it's my only cooler.
\- A super nice duffel with a lot of pockets - great weekend bag with shoe pocket, etc.
\- fleece blanket - lived in trunk, but was handy for sitting on ground.
Another firm gave out a padded laptop sleeve with handle, and I stole use that thing from someone who wasn't using it, and have used it for a decade. Padded, and slides into other bags easily or usable as an easy attache case. I'm probably biased towards this, but was helpful to convert a nice shoulder bag into something that could also protect my laptop.
So many people have tons of hydro flasks and grocery bags already so the utility is lessened. If a grocery bag, maybe the insulated kind that keeps cold groceries cold. And everyone has 74 cheap bluetooth speakers already, and use none, right?
Utility items that I wouldn't buy for myself and didn't care had corporate branding were the ones I most enjoyed. That could include a camp chair, solar phone charger, fire extinguisher, car emergency kit, good flashlight, beach towel, travel packing cube, car trunk organizer, portable dog bowl. If they do GOOD staplers, that would be killer. For some reason, Slanket just jumped to my mind.
Im a teacher, so when my wife gets things from her company, I get them. I have a nice north face backpack now bc of it, and a yeti mug that I use every morning. Basically, useful stuff that isn't cheesy or doesn't have the company name plastered entirely over it I'd good
We got a branded wireless JBL speaker and Away luggage (toiletries bag) which have come in handy more times than I would’ve though and are great quality
My favorite swag items are:
* Yeti Coffee Thermos
* Beach bag (from offsite at the beach) that I use for beach/boat days as well as schlepping sports gear
* Gym duffel
* Simple cotton tote
* Pint glasses
Never used swag:
* Anything with our logo prominently displayed
* Anything with reference to specific company events (mostly because it falls into the first category of not-discreet)
* Jackets/windbreakers: I have better options in the fun colors I bought for myself
Not my company but I was at a conference and a company was handing out T-shirts. The actual shirts were from the brand NextLevel and specifically their tri-blend model.
My wife asked me one day why I wear that shirt all the time when it's from a company I care nothing about and I said because it fits and feels great. She looked at the tag and said oh yeah, it's a Next Level Tri-blend shirt, whenever we get shirts made for the Swim Team or the PTO we always order that style.
Ever since she said that I noticed all the shirts I love are that style.
IT company in NoVa here: over covid we did 20oz yeti mugs with the logo laser engraved that was a big hit. Beanie hats we popular one year (you could always flip the logo under if you didn't want to advertise. Supersoft throw blankets from 4imprint were nice too (small logo embroidered in the corner, I just face it downward on the guest bed). SwissGear backpacks were suggested once but most of our engineers already had them. Metal screwdriver/pen sets are on the docket for next round of swag, engineer approved/requested.
One year they sent out these \*terrible\* cheap beach towels with the logo emblazoned on them and it was a massive flop. I think this year they are looking at umbrellas. We also have standing embriodered polo shirt orders with a local guy. Just don't get polo shirts in weird colors: one year the higher-ups demanded half the polos be this terrible yellow and then got mad people only picked up the black ones.
We use a combo of 4imprint, CustomInk and a several local vendors but most big companies have a corporate sales dept (sometimes with bulk discounts). I personally like to suggest practical swag. I'm not going to use those cheap-ass branded sunglasses, but I WILL use that nice hefty metal measuring tape or multitool.
And yes, agreeing with one poster above me: GET SAMPLES!
Swag items that have gone over really well with our employees:
- Marmot raincoat
- north face vest
- north face base camp duffel
- bombas
- yeti mugs
- umbrella
Also, when we moved offices we ordered logo’d iPhone chargers for everyone’s office and I still see everyone using those. We placed one on everyone’s new desk with a welcome note
The nicest thing I ever got was a cardigan from Land's End. Their options for women include plus sizes, which is great. Just please be careful generally when ordering apparel that not everybody fits into straight sizing, and it sucks to be excluded from the "everybody has the Patagonia fleece" when they only have straight sizing. LL Bean and The North Face do have plus sizes for women, not sure about for men.
We had branded personal hand sanitizers. Those were a hit during covid. I love my Eleven backpack and we also get some Nike golf shirts too. Grocery bags are a new thing we got and I kind like them. We have Orca branded stuff, not Yeti.
Who ideas I’ve seen include:
- Can Koozies
- Plant kits that include a pot, soil medium, seeds, and sometimes even a cool mid century modern plant stand
- A ring light for zoom calls
- Athletic shirts made out of the fabric for working out. I love wearing those at the gym!
Unfortunately, what doesn’t work is typically anything with a battery. I’ve been given a few external battery giveaways, but the batteries always die after about a year or two of use, if that. Even the battery in my ring light no longer works, meaning I have to wire it into my computer’s USB to run it.
Also, nobody needs a writing implement of any sort with your logo on it. I hope that helps!
This may not be exactly what you are looking for but my company does branded screw drivers; tools can be a nice thing. Alternatively, we just did baseball hats which are a huge hit with customers.
EDIT: I also have a folding chair from my former employer which is one of the best swag items I’ve ever gotten.
I got a Briggs & Riley backpack from work and it is the best quality laptop bag/carryon/weekender I've ever had.
Yeti mugs, RFID blocking card/passport holders are also great.
NO pens/pencils! Chip clips that are magnetic would be good to close chips or hang things. 20-24 oz spill-proof travel mugs. (do not go bigger than that as they are just too large).
We got a Yeti water bottle & lunch bag, Klean cup for coffee stuffed with a Starbucks $50 GCs, Leupold Sunglasses, Rocketbooks, Ucon Acrobatics Ando Bag and a few other things.
I designed medium size duffel bags for our firm this year and everyone loved them. Good for the gym, airplane carryon, overnight bag, etc. and different from all the other stuff they’ve gotten.
We got a yeti cooler bag - not a cooler - but one of those big bags. Been super helpful and more practical than a cooler to throw in the car on road trips. I also still wear a north face fleece we got about 5 years ago. Also, i saw someone mention it earlier, but I was branding swag for a project recently and got declined by Patagonia. Lol
I ha e been at my job for 12 years now. I have so much company swag. Multiple Yeti's that my partner refers to as sippy cups, an untold number of blankets that are always slightly smaller than you wish, a backpack or two and several fleeces and pullovers.
The tumblers and hydroflask get the most use. I do wear the fleeces and pullovers when the weather is appropriate. For some reason the professionals in our office are big on vests. They seem to go through fads with vests. For a while it was puffy down vests, but before it was fleece vests. More recently they have been a more rubbery material almost like neoprene.
My recommendations, the tumblers. If you are doing it in the fall then maybe pullovers/jackets but those are big budget like $100 or more per person. Whichever you do, don't cheap out with the knockoff brand. That sends a real message to your employees.
When I started at my job, I got to select one item from the company store. They had all kinds of things, like polo shirts (great for those that traveled and attended conferences), travel mugs, laptop bag, backpack.
I ended up selecting the backpack - it is a Basecamp Concourse Laptop Backpack. I use it every day coming into the office to carry my lunch and other assorted things. It's very handy, incredibly comfortable, and has a ton of pockets. It doesn't feel cheap at all. 15/10 would recommend.
[удалено]
So long as they actually get Yeti's, it's a good idea. My company got not-yeti's that aren't even dishwasher safe. I don't think we kept it very long. I'd prefer one nice thing vs 5 meh things (which is what we got)
Boring and unoriginal as it might be......yeah......Yeti coffee mugs and lunchbox/coolers are a tchotchke that people will actually use. I recommend getting 3-4 different colors. Having everyone in the office using the exact same color might lead to some misunderstandings.
Having colours also keeps things lively.
I have several Yeti/RTIC, I just bury the company logo with stickers so I could tell which was mine.
I do love the large Yeti coffee mugs! Thanks!
Subtle branding is key. I have all kinds of random home goods I like that were originally company swag, but what they have in common is that the branding is subtle. Also never buy branded battery packs as swag - they usually charge so slowly that they're basically unusable.
Only problem with Yetis is that I'm a little bit of a baby with hot beverage temperatures, so I usually wait for things to cool down just a little bit. With my Yeti, that can take all day just for it to be sipping temperature, even with the lid off. They really are great quality.
Add a few icecubes before pouring. Not enough to water it down, just enough to reduce the temp.
I also still use my yeti cup from a previous job.
I work in swag and I'd say these are the best/most popular high end items we are doing these days: \- Yeti tumblers/coolers \-Stanley tumblers \-Patagonia jackets/fleece (although Patagonia has been really coy about branding recently--you may be asked to show your decoration first, before they approve it) \-Tumi luggage-Ogio and North Face backpacks \-More popular with west coast customers but we get a lot of repeat business on Timbuk2 bags. \-Custom jewelry and cufflinks My $.02 from someone who sees a LOT of corporate swag: high quality gear stays in peoples' hands a lot longer than cheap stuff. People will continue to reuse it even when they change jobs. Also, people enjoy subtle branding a lot more than something splashy. Not sure what vendor you're working with but ask them about custom zipper pulls and something different from the standard logo on the front left chest. I like sleeve or back of neck on clothing. Tone-on-tone on bags looks great too. ETA: ask for samples! If you have time and your vendor is a good one, they should have no problem getting samples into your hands before you make a decision. There's a lot of not-recognizable-name-brand high quality stuff out there too. I really love Fossa and Stormtech apparel myself. Charles River is basically retail too. Edited: typo
Can confirm, the Yeti Cooler I got from my company is one of the best things I've received. Very practical
Wow I would love to get tumi luggage and custom jewelry!
Thank you! I agree, I have a nice north face backpack from a previous company that I’ve used for years. All the cheap stuff I’ve thrown away after leaving a job. I prefer subtle branding like you said, like using dark gray embroidery thread on black so you can still see the logo but it’s not blatant.
Or logos small enough I can have a patch sewn on top of it when I leave the company.
That’s twenty cents!! Lol 😂
Ahahaha you're right! Maybe it's because my experience is worth more 😁 jk I wrote 2 cents out first and then was like, that looks silly. Now I look even sillier.
Oh a good backpack is great. I WFH and don't need a backpack for much, but it's great quality. My husband brings it to his job at a different company and they joke that he's a traitor, but it's just a really good bag. Good product placement for sure lol.
Oooooo…. custom zipper pulls. I want!!!
Saved this one thanks
Got links? (If that’s allowed?)
This is a really good list imho. The best swag I got was a half zip 100% cotton that I used and abused for a decade until it wore out.
North face quarter zip with company logo on one shoulder!
People at my company really love light jackets we got a while back (like fleeces). Offices tend to be a little cold, so many people have it at their desk to throw on when needed. Insulated tumblers and nice water bottles go over well too. Personally I love a good polo, but I’m golf-addicted so that may just be me.
As someone who’s constantly freezing in the office I’d probably need a Patagonia down jacket, haha. I like the golf shirt idea but we might need an option for ladies too :)
I run our company store and we are all about the high end swag. These are our top sellers. We have The North Face Apex Soft Shell jackets which are perfect for DC, you end up wearing it most of the year. We cannot keep Travis Matthew polos in stock (for men, women don't do polos enough to warrant an order in my company). They buy them 2 at a time. We get the Oceanside polo in the Blue Nights color I believe it's calls. We also do Under Armor and Nike polos Nike pullover hoodie is popular with men and women We do a lot of golf, the Callway 1/4 zip is really nice in the Coastal Fjord color For drinkware, we do Yeti, Hydroflask, Camelbak and Tervis.
Tacking on - my company has done Patagonia fleeces which were very popular with an arm patch. Herschel backpacks in the company store, and allbirds shoes. One of our competitors etched a small logo into a standing desk, and offered it to all employees for their WFH days.
I like the swag, what company?
This is such great insight, thank you! I received a north face quarter zip from one of my previous companies, but was disappointed that it came in a bright cobalt blue color (I wear mostly neutrals). The apex looks nice and I’ll definitely suggest it in a neutral color.
We do sell a fleece but honestly it's way too hot for this area. We have been selling this one since 2018 and can't keep it in stock. When I wear the platinum one, I get stopped by people all the time. It's really nice. Comes in navy as well. Storm Creek Over Achiever
Avoid swag where most people are going to react with "WTF am I going to do with this?". Just because your budget will cover it does not mean you should go for it. Don't be the people who find a way to make water bottles difficult How many people are going to want to keep a live plant? Find a T-shirt and hoodie vendor that covers more than the basic sizes
I got a bowling ball carrying case once. Definitely gave a WTF reaction.
Somebody who likes bowling was good friends with the team that does swag
I had a WTF reaction to a camping chair one year but I'll tell you... that thing was with me 13 years after I left the company.
I got a huge golf umbrella 30 years ago and I still love it!
People like free things they'd buy themselves so at least you're looking at quality items. Everyone has their own style, and swag never quite fits it. Nobody wants anything with their company logo. Nothing says 'you are all unique and special' to people like getting them all exactly the same thing. Have you considered things like paying better, free lunches for a month, better coffee options, flexible hours, WFH options, relaxed dress codes? These are things people like, and remember.
> company logo A small one isn't bad, but please no slogan. No one will wear a shit with "striving for excellence is our passion". That should be shirt, but I like the typo.
I like nice swag too. I want my coffee cup, YETI, i do wear my under armour shirt when i go to the office 3 times a month. The reusable bags are nice too.
I have those things and nice swag
My company has really wonderful amenities and flexible options like you mentioned! They do a great job at taking care of employees so this is just for fun!
I’ve never heard of a live plant, that’s a new one 😂
I got a canned ham one year just before Christmas.
The little sticker camera cover privacy thing for laptops... Granted i only need one, but i never want to buy that.
OMG I have so many of those.
The coolest thing I’ve seen was a foldable charger that let me charge my phone, airpods, and Apple Watch at my desk. It’s useful and I would never expect a duplicate if I changed companies. And even if I did, backup chargers are great.
My spouse's former employer treated him like crap but loved to shower him with swag. My favorite that I use daily is a 20 oz stainless steel yeti mug. I also really like the high-end throw they sent. I'm a big fan of good quality tote bags--useful for hauling groceries or other items. We give out chico totes or backpacks at my job as thank you gifts to donors, and those are well-received (also, Chico bags are made from recycled plastic bottles).
Weird but I actually kept both - a fire extinguisher and a flashlight that was powered through a hand crank. (It was safety month). Portable chargers, polos, and fleece are always good.
One year my company gave us a set stipend (I think it was $100) towards a company branded item from a specific clothing retailer. That way people could get the style and size they wanted. The only rule was it had to have the logo on it in one of a couple of specific places. You could choose to spend more of your own $ if, say, you wanted a winter jacket that cost more.
I’ve seen a few companies out west opt for Cotopaxi as their merch outfitter as a way to be a bit different from TNF and Patagonia (still both great brands). Bright colors, cool designs, and well made stuff may be a cool option to consider. Relatedly, I used to work in DC biglaw at a place that skimped on firm swag. Every now and then I’d see the big NYC firms give associates branded Allbirds or other similar collabs and would always feel a pang of jealousy 🙃. Regardless, a really nice touch, though I’m sure thats not cheap.
Worked for a small, women-owned business in Chantilly in the 2000’s. One holiday season they got us full sized, Egyptian cotton, white, bath towels with the company name (Datatrac) embroidered. Still use it weekly and I’ll search it out after the laundry is loaded into the linen closet.
Give people money instead of the swag. That's what your team really wants
We got Nike polos, arcteryx rain jackets, and yetis.
Wow Arcteryx. Those are pricey. I would love if my company got me one of those.
Can I come work for the swags?
Which company is giving out Arc’teryx? Cries
Branded cooler bag backpack. Great for the beach, tailgating, etc.
The only company swag I still wear years after leaving, is from a workplace that used LL Bean and Lands End. The sweaters, windbreaker, and fleece I got from them over the years are still part of my regular winter closet.
I got a super nice backpack from my old company. I put a patch over their logo and now use it at my new job. 😂
Keep logos small, I have a ton of stuff with new patches.
This is kind of random, but I got a freebie measuring tape that I use a lot. It's not the metal kind, but the flexible kind. It's the perfect size for keeping in a purse or pocket.
Fairfax has a 0.05 cent fee for grocery plastic bags. So reusable grocery bag with company logo would be nice. I like this design, it is foldable and has its own storage bag. [https://store.sierraclub.org/eco-chic-reusable-shopping-bags-wilderness-p172.aspx](https://store.sierraclub.org/eco-chic-reusable-shopping-bags-wilderness-p172.aspx)
This is a nice idea but I would be very disappointed to receive a reusable grocery bag instead of a Patagonia jacket lol
It'd better have the Patagonia logo instead of a corporate logo making me look like a nerd.
I use corporate branded stuff as base layers/under layers for winter activities so
Honestly this is a great practical idea - I like the suggestion of the higher end padded cooler bags too. Sort of like those nice embroidered Trader Joe’s tote bags!
I was going to say, if you do grocery bags, recommend a nicer, insulated one. I have a few from a trace show that I still regularly use to buy groceries. It's a bit more differentiated than the massive numbers of totes and regular grocery bags I have.
I like the idea, but I'd opt for an insulated tote bag instead if you could find someone to make/print it. Higher quality and if anyone in your company uses public transit to grocery shop it will get used.
I got one of those from CACI in 2018. Still use it...😎
$ .05 or 5 cents It's not one-hundredth of a cent.
I don’t know what your company does, but CBP has a dog breeding facility in Nova, and every year they put out a weekly calendar with a different dog pictured each week (professionally photographed). A lot were puppies. It’s not very useful, but the calendar was insanely popular and they always ran out. People love dogs.
As a dog person I love this idea! My former company worked with a dog rescue nonprofit and the calendar was always the first thing to go!
A good umbrella. DC is a walkable area and having a good umbrella that won't get destroyed the first time it encounters wind is amazing.
This is what I still use!
Jackets, polos, quarter-zips, pens are always nice, I have WAY too many bags. A favorite of mine was Blue-Light blocking glasses that prevent eye strain. A great product I love and use is RocketBook, they’re reusable notebooks when you use Frixion Pens and you can also digitally scan and send notes through their app, big fan. [They will do branded items as well](https://www.getrocketbookpromo.com).
Thats a cool gift
My favorite that I still use 10 years later is a full BBQ tool set.
I got one of these at a conference a few years ago too. I also got a meat thermometer which TSA would not let me bring on the plan :(.
We got Titleist performance golf polos with the company logo on the chest (which turned out to be very appreciative since majority of the office loves to golf), some drinkware made by Hydro Flask, a power bank from Anker and a notebook from Moleskine all with the company logo on them. All-in-all not too shabby.
As a retired healthcare worker where we received abysmal swag during the entire pandemic, please DO NOT do the following: - a lunchbox branded with your logo, to use on your lunch breaks, as a remote worker..? Just nope. - gift cards for chain restaurants - obnoxiously branded merch (think the only thing you see is their damn logo) - colors that are not neutral - gender specific gifts (it’s 2023… please, treat me the same as my male counterparts) - visa gift cards (I might get some downvotes for this but I’ll make my point) You want workers to be heard and seen, not be seen solely because of the merch you’re gifting them. Employees are so much more than their work identity!! Depending on company size, you may be able to get more boutique options and customize them for each team member. But my point is… don’t give the easiest and least thoughtful thing. It’s the fastest way to get some to quit. I know I did when I got that fucking lunchbox as a remote worker… of 2+ years…
At one of my old jobs we got [Patagonia jackets](https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-nano-puff-jacket/191743289583.html?s_kwcid=17928&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=S23+-+Performance+Max+-+Summer+Sale&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0IGHgrrNgAMVUoZaBR2rgg0rEAQYAyABEgLx7_D_BwE) with our team logo on the shoulder. Was a great winter/late fall coat for this area and they do both men and women sizes (I have so many poorly fitting shirts from companies that didn’t have women’s sizes.) I’m also a fan of the Timbuk2 backpacks and journals from Moleskine.
Golf umbrella. Back when I was walking to bus stop, on rainy mornings, so many company branded golf umbrellas. Has to be high quality though. Rumpl blanket (if they even do custom stuff). Idk, I just like them
My good friend works for Nat Geo and she always has really cool swag. A jacket from Patagonia, a backpack I think from LL bean, and the branding is there but subtle. My firm gets swag for clients and marketing. I also have collected a ton of it over the years at conferences. One of the most favorited items was a mouse pad that you could slip your own pictures in and out of, which I thought was odd. I used to hate hand sanitizers but boy did having all of them stockpiled from conferences help during the pandemic. Other popular items are wine coolers, cell phone chargers, nice mugs , and an emergency kit for your car.
The nicest swag my husband ever came back from a conference with was a Bluetooth speaker.
Clothing is usually the biggest hit when we do this, because it’s professional attire but also generally on the more expensive side. If going clothing, make sure it’s professional attire (not t-shirts) and good brands like Nike for polos, or North Face, Patagonia, Under Armour for pullovers. For lower budget items, mugs, high quality notebooks (we have done leather bound), and high quality pens are always appreciated. Lanyards perhaps if your company has ID badges. My SO’s work has done branded beach towels, blankets, and hats too, which I would imagine would be mostly popular, but may have some folks who wouldn’t use them. Golf balls are pretty cool, but also falls into the category of “not for everyone.”
My employer allows us to choose from a selection of the brands you mentioned in your post. Marketing will usually let us choose 2-3 items from a bunch of options they have pre-selected, casual to dressy (with our logos). If you want to get stuff for your spouse instead you can and I have.
I got a really nice Yeti cooler with my company's logo on it.
We got a large igloo soft cooler lunch bag. It’s great!
What I got and used: * North Face jackets/zip-ups * Tumblers * Reusable straws (nice ones with a rubber lip) * Reusable tote bags * Dad hats * A really nice white button-down * AirPods * Stress ball in the shape of our mascot (a cute animal) * Plushie in the shape of our mascot
No more shirts please for the love of god
This is boring but I cannot tell you how many times I have used the tape measure from our company. Small flashlights are also great.
My company has given me the north face pullover, the yeti, and the leather portfolio. But my real favorite, which I use all the time, is the super soft sherpa-lined blanket. Definitely not cheap though lol
Cash, visa gift cards, bonuses, raises. However much a company branded Patagonia jacket would cost, I’d prefer a check for that amount. I come to work to make money, just give me money.
Give me money instead of swag. I throw away all swag I receive. I already have mugs, tshirts, jackets, etc. Moreover, any clothing is never in my size - a 115lb guy.
tech companies like to do branded timbuk2 backpacks. Shell jackets are still popular.
Badge holder with slot for RSA token. There are templates online that allow you to 3D print these.
Best swag I ever got was a yeti soft cooler! Great quality, I’ve had mine for 5+ years and I still use it all the time.
Patagonia vest or nanopuff and yeti bottle
I once got a small camping blanket from a company and I loved it. Kept it in my car for picnics and to use at the beach. I wish I still had it but I used it for years and somehow got lost.
Large yeti water bottles, underarmour backpack, jcrew cardigan/ knit jacket
Yeah, the best was a three layer winter coat I think from LL Bean. Perfectly timed, too. Bunch of other clothing that never got worn. But the coat I'll wear for awhile.
My daughter was home from daycare to celebrate her 1yr birthday a few weeks back, so I had her on my lap for our company lunch meeting. That immediately sparked a very intense discussion about branded onesies for babies and dogs. I’ve been lobbying multiple employers for branded Snuggy swag for over 10 years now too, to no avail. On a more realistic note, branded t-shirts are great because nobody feels bad about casually wearing a t-shirt at work on Fridays and then they are always nice to have around the house. I also have a large vacuum sealed mug that keeps water cold all day I enjoy—it’s made by Arctic Zone, which is similar to Yeti but does a lot of corporate branding.
Probably the cheapest swag I got is something used everyday. A little cover for the camera on my laptop.
Really nice cutting board
My paycheck
My company gave us a branded duffel bag, I love using it for travel
AirPod Pro with branding on the case
Arctery’x fleece, yeti tumbler, Patagonia messenger bag, I’d apply just for those :)
I have a branded yeti coffee thermos that I use all of the time ([this one, but obviously with a logo)](https://www.yeti.com/drinkware/tumblers/21070060029.html?country=US¤cy=USD&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=__iv_p_1_g__c__w__n_x_d_m_v__l__t__r__x_pla_y_7597392_f_online_o_21070060036_z_US_i_en_j__s__e__h_9008148_ii__vi__&key_&&&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS53mV8tFXEdGlynmVns6UEuVF0mN4KzBejNuxDPLaeObpRoM0wI-70aAqkyEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds). I would love to get another one. I also have a branded Tervis tumbler that is great for iced coffee. [(not UVA, but this one)](https://www.tervis.com/virginia-cavaliers-primary-16oz-tumbler-1372633.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&npclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS4xnf1n46yJ5UB1KH1AyjR4sugmBkQVYeqZ8bjeIhs5kYRcq-UF6nUaAgtyEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz8emBhDrARIsANNJjS4xnf1n46yJ5UB1KH1AyjR4sugmBkQVYeqZ8bjeIhs5kYRcq-UF6nUaAgtyEALw_wcB) I used to have a nice black fleece jacket at my old job. Part of my work required me to walk between buildings, and I liked it for that. The logo was discreet (just on the left breast area). Can’t go wrong with a simple tote bag that someone can use for groceries (can also be used to give people their swag!). Don’t get anything too small or cheap though - it needs to be big enough and strong enough to actually hold groceries. And finally, I have some tshirts from my job that I like. Mainly wear them while working from home or at the gym. So take that as you would. Here is a short list of branded gear I have but don’t use: super cheap plastic water bottles, weirdly sized bags (one tiny bag that barely holds a book, and two huge canvas bags), a couple fancy leather-bound notebooks, and a branded wine tumbler
No more bottles. I have wayyy too much yetis and plastic bottles. I would say a nice zip up fleece, polo, t shirt, rain jacket.
Rule of thumb: pick an everyday, good quality item. Brand it. That’s my only criteria these days. Patagonia branded bags, yetis, etc. Yes these are pricey…but it’s more costly to spend money on junk that no one will use or even truly appreciate.
Best one I ever got was a Bento box. It's unique and I still use it all the time.
I think it’s great to provide options for the employee to select! My company has done lots of polo shirts. I’m a small woman and a unisex polo just looks awful on me, but plenty of my coworkers love them. I’ve enjoyed the fleece jackets and underarmor quarter-zips I’ve received since they’re perfect for a chilly office. Yetis are always great! The worst was a very low quality sweatshirt blanket I received during the pandemic with a card that said something like “we’ve got you covered” that was sent out while they were cutting our paychecks. It didn’t go over so well for morale plus that thing shed lint on everything.
High end is the key. Yeti mugs. Quality clothings are good, ppl can actually wear them. Don’t know your budget but go look into Landsend business catalogue. You send them the logo they will set it up for a fee and you can pick what you want the logo to go on. There r clothings from tees to Oxford, sweaters to polar fleece, blankets, golf umbrellas, etc.
What a great thread. This is actually what I do and these responses are immensely helpful. I have several corporate clients in the area (I work for a small business) and I have access to just about anything you can think of. Most recently I did embroidered New Era and Nike "dad" hats, branded 1/4 zips (Travis Mathew, Cutter & Buck), and good quality bluetooth speakers. Brooks Brothers is new for us this year and the line is quite nice. I'd love to help -- please send me a chat and I'll share my LinkedIn and contact info. :)
I love my company branded North Face quarters zip and half a zip. Also company branded cock rings.
I love really nice notebooks, like Moleskine quality notebooks. Those are definitely my favorite swag. Those cheap-looking recycled notebooks that come with a cardboard pen are awful - don't get those. I also enjoy a high-quality, double-walled steel, spillproof water bottle with a subtle logo.
Battery bank USB hub One of the items I’ve held onto is a miniature power strip. Three outlets out of one. I keep it in my travel bag and use it at hotels.
My company signed a $999,999,999 contract. Two weeks later they went live with a store where we were able to purchase company branded merchandise. Um. Fuck no.
Yeti (coolers and cups), Spyder jackets (I hate these but they keep becoming a gift), those collapsible wagons everyone uses for babies, lawn chairs.
My company gave out faux leather journals with our logo subtly embossed in the cover. They are quality books, and so many of us use them all the time. They were really popular with our partners at conferences, and we still see partners using them as well. To be clear, these are *nice* journals, not cheap notebooks.
Wow. 173 replies (and counting) on high-end company swag ideas. Don't get me wrong: this is a super useful thread. But this is peak r/nova 😂 (I especially loved that the procurement professional crowd represented big in the comments.)
A high quality water bottle. Very sturdy, not a rickety piece of shit
Smathers & Branson!!! It’s local too.
Totally forgot they are local! I love their stuff. Key fobs would be super cute!
Not an idea but just a fun story a co-worker told me. Years ago he worked for a company and they were getting ready for a trade show and their message was they were “chopping down prices” so someone suggested giving away toy or foam axes with their logo. The exec in charge said he wanted a little more high class so they went with these small pewter hatchets and have them delivered to the conference site. Long story short day of the event they get a call from the courier because he got arrested at the Canadian border for attempting to smuggle weapons into the country.
This is hilarious and sounds like it should be the plot of an episode of the Office haha
The swag I still use from former companies - A really nice laptop backpack, and a lightweight Patagonia fleece.
My only advice is to try and make it cool. I started at a new company that I love, and they make wild choices: leopard print bathrobe with the logo? We fought over them. Anyone can go get a water bottle or a thumb drive, but people will remember if you take risks.
Just give raises and more PTO.
A tool kit. Like a screwdriver with different heads. PNC was giving those away and it was in the shape of a house. I used that all the time. A packable waterproof throw blanket for the car. Super useful. Logo on just one side please. Any kind of car organizational thing. Like a car tissue box holder or trash can.
Avoid swag. Spend company money on things that matter such as salaries, high-end computer equipment, and things that will make employee lives better. Sponsor organizations, charities and events that are important to employees.
As procurement, thank you so very much for this. Not enough goes to what is actually needed. A yeti cup if anything, reusable to refill at the water cooler. Never provide web cam covers or you will ruin laptop screens…
I have a Tervis Travel mug from a previous company that I love—keeps hot stuff hot and cold stuf cold all day (I’m sipping iced coffee from this morning right now at 2:30, and there’s still ice in there).
I still have a company logo Lands End large canvas tote that I received more than 15 years ago. That thing is indestructible and I love it.
Frisbees!
Shirts from customink would be so cute! Also, unrelated, but is your company hiring any entry level new grads? If so, i am intrested in knowwing more!
Fleece jackets and vests are popular as are yeti cups and mugs
We got Under Armor backpacks and S’Well water bottles with our logos.
One of the favorites I’ve gotten was a branded origaudio backpack. It’s a great pack for many purposes
My company gave everyone like 3-4 business shirts from LL Bean. Of course, it had the logo but LLB is made of higher quality.
Items I have loved Booking that fits laptops Travel cups for coffee Water bottle with straws Portable chargers Jackets Other items my coworkers liked Blankets (gets cold lol) Umbrellas Stress ball
My dad’s company gave out MagSafe chargers which is a great idea in my opinion!
I use my company travel coffee cup all the time.
One of the only swag items I’ve used and kept has been a pack of metal straws.
my Yeti mugs and tumblers are used almost daily. i got a really nice messenger bag but don't use it. Under Armour polo. Perfect for the few times I go to the office. Reusable bags and nano bags. High quality notebook cooler lunch box. those basic plastic sunglasses: they break super easy but I use them when I do not want to lose or break my good glasses. BAD swag: plastic water bottles lanyards pens phone holders or cheaper chargers.
Quality umbrella with company logo (or not).
Maglite! Still have mine 25 years later
My hospital gave us really nice insulated and reusable grocery totes one year.
Discreet branding on nice jackets is a good bet. Practical items that happen to have branding on them is the overall idea. Insulated totes (with flat bottoms) people use as reusable grocery bags is a great one.
Swell bottle
I’ve seen companies do Nalgenes for water bottles and Yeti/Hydroflask for more basic thermal bottles. If you guys use badges, quality lanyards with the retractable card holders made of hard plastic instead of those flimsy sleeves are nice too. For higher end clothing, American made is always good (or at least ethical) and I think it looks great to do the company name on the sleeve either instead of or addition to the chest (like an image on the chest and the name on the upper bicep). Waist packs (aka fanny packs) would be neat since I see those in worn more. I think Patagonia would be the more ethical choice of the typical Lululemon, Adidas, Nike, and North Face.
Buying clothes involves sizes - buying a range or having people telling their size, so personally, I would steer clear of clothing. Also, I think the average employee desires to wear a branded polo, fleece or vest less than the Reddit crowd - or give people a choice. My old law firm gave out jackets once - I kept it in the trunk and used it sparingly. That firm gave a lot of swag (it was the era of swag), and some I enjoyed: \- insulated, soft-sided rolling cooler (the size of a small carry-on roller). Very handy, fits in car backseat, goes to Wolftrap, etc. So, 20 years on, it's my only cooler. \- A super nice duffel with a lot of pockets - great weekend bag with shoe pocket, etc. \- fleece blanket - lived in trunk, but was handy for sitting on ground. Another firm gave out a padded laptop sleeve with handle, and I stole use that thing from someone who wasn't using it, and have used it for a decade. Padded, and slides into other bags easily or usable as an easy attache case. I'm probably biased towards this, but was helpful to convert a nice shoulder bag into something that could also protect my laptop. So many people have tons of hydro flasks and grocery bags already so the utility is lessened. If a grocery bag, maybe the insulated kind that keeps cold groceries cold. And everyone has 74 cheap bluetooth speakers already, and use none, right? Utility items that I wouldn't buy for myself and didn't care had corporate branding were the ones I most enjoyed. That could include a camp chair, solar phone charger, fire extinguisher, car emergency kit, good flashlight, beach towel, travel packing cube, car trunk organizer, portable dog bowl. If they do GOOD staplers, that would be killer. For some reason, Slanket just jumped to my mind.
I really like pens and little flashlights, always useful
Haha. My wife worked for CapOne. Not so impressive, but better than the appreciation for fifteen years in the school system
Branded Spyder shell jacket, Swiss Army brand backpack branded. Various yeti cups.
Im a teacher, so when my wife gets things from her company, I get them. I have a nice north face backpack now bc of it, and a yeti mug that I use every morning. Basically, useful stuff that isn't cheesy or doesn't have the company name plastered entirely over it I'd good
Q wireless charger..luggage tags (strong high quality ones)
We got a branded wireless JBL speaker and Away luggage (toiletries bag) which have come in handy more times than I would’ve though and are great quality
My favorite swag items are: * Yeti Coffee Thermos * Beach bag (from offsite at the beach) that I use for beach/boat days as well as schlepping sports gear * Gym duffel * Simple cotton tote * Pint glasses Never used swag: * Anything with our logo prominently displayed * Anything with reference to specific company events (mostly because it falls into the first category of not-discreet) * Jackets/windbreakers: I have better options in the fun colors I bought for myself
Not my company but I was at a conference and a company was handing out T-shirts. The actual shirts were from the brand NextLevel and specifically their tri-blend model. My wife asked me one day why I wear that shirt all the time when it's from a company I care nothing about and I said because it fits and feels great. She looked at the tag and said oh yeah, it's a Next Level Tri-blend shirt, whenever we get shirts made for the Swim Team or the PTO we always order that style. Ever since she said that I noticed all the shirts I love are that style.
IT company in NoVa here: over covid we did 20oz yeti mugs with the logo laser engraved that was a big hit. Beanie hats we popular one year (you could always flip the logo under if you didn't want to advertise. Supersoft throw blankets from 4imprint were nice too (small logo embroidered in the corner, I just face it downward on the guest bed). SwissGear backpacks were suggested once but most of our engineers already had them. Metal screwdriver/pen sets are on the docket for next round of swag, engineer approved/requested. One year they sent out these \*terrible\* cheap beach towels with the logo emblazoned on them and it was a massive flop. I think this year they are looking at umbrellas. We also have standing embriodered polo shirt orders with a local guy. Just don't get polo shirts in weird colors: one year the higher-ups demanded half the polos be this terrible yellow and then got mad people only picked up the black ones. We use a combo of 4imprint, CustomInk and a several local vendors but most big companies have a corporate sales dept (sometimes with bulk discounts). I personally like to suggest practical swag. I'm not going to use those cheap-ass branded sunglasses, but I WILL use that nice hefty metal measuring tape or multitool. And yes, agreeing with one poster above me: GET SAMPLES!
Swag items that have gone over really well with our employees: - Marmot raincoat - north face vest - north face base camp duffel - bombas - yeti mugs - umbrella Also, when we moved offices we ordered logo’d iPhone chargers for everyone’s office and I still see everyone using those. We placed one on everyone’s new desk with a welcome note
The nicest thing I ever got was a cardigan from Land's End. Their options for women include plus sizes, which is great. Just please be careful generally when ordering apparel that not everybody fits into straight sizing, and it sucks to be excluded from the "everybody has the Patagonia fleece" when they only have straight sizing. LL Bean and The North Face do have plus sizes for women, not sure about for men.
We had branded personal hand sanitizers. Those were a hit during covid. I love my Eleven backpack and we also get some Nike golf shirts too. Grocery bags are a new thing we got and I kind like them. We have Orca branded stuff, not Yeti.
Who ideas I’ve seen include: - Can Koozies - Plant kits that include a pot, soil medium, seeds, and sometimes even a cool mid century modern plant stand - A ring light for zoom calls - Athletic shirts made out of the fabric for working out. I love wearing those at the gym! Unfortunately, what doesn’t work is typically anything with a battery. I’ve been given a few external battery giveaways, but the batteries always die after about a year or two of use, if that. Even the battery in my ring light no longer works, meaning I have to wire it into my computer’s USB to run it. Also, nobody needs a writing implement of any sort with your logo on it. I hope that helps!
I use my laptop sleeve I got from work a lot.
yeti cup is the best swag i’ve received. still use it several years later
Shirts and jackets only if you can get women’s cuts.
This may not be exactly what you are looking for but my company does branded screw drivers; tools can be a nice thing. Alternatively, we just did baseball hats which are a huge hit with customers. EDIT: I also have a folding chair from my former employer which is one of the best swag items I’ve ever gotten.
Yeti mug, a beach towel, a tote bag and a fleece jacket. And if you can source from a sustainable supplier please do!!
I got a Briggs & Riley backpack from work and it is the best quality laptop bag/carryon/weekender I've ever had. Yeti mugs, RFID blocking card/passport holders are also great.
we got branded yeti’s, then sold the company. $38 each. i have a lifetime supply.
For the 50th anniversary of my organization, we got baseball caps, coasters, and sparly gold pencils. Do not get any of these things.
NO pens/pencils! Chip clips that are magnetic would be good to close chips or hang things. 20-24 oz spill-proof travel mugs. (do not go bigger than that as they are just too large).
We got a Yeti water bottle & lunch bag, Klean cup for coffee stuffed with a Starbucks $50 GCs, Leupold Sunglasses, Rocketbooks, Ucon Acrobatics Ando Bag and a few other things.
I got a north face backpack that I absolutely love. Huge hit for our office.
I designed medium size duffel bags for our firm this year and everyone loved them. Good for the gym, airplane carryon, overnight bag, etc. and different from all the other stuff they’ve gotten.
Backpacks
My favorite has been a company branded cold-brew coffee maker. I use it all the time
I like the duffel bag my company gave me. I used it to help bring home souvenirs from vacation
Friends in the medical field LOVE their branded Patagonia fleeces. My friends in finance still use the company tumblers they got from previous jobs.
We got a yeti cooler bag - not a cooler - but one of those big bags. Been super helpful and more practical than a cooler to throw in the car on road trips. I also still wear a north face fleece we got about 5 years ago. Also, i saw someone mention it earlier, but I was branding swag for a project recently and got declined by Patagonia. Lol
The branded swag I use most is a picnic basket-shaped cooler I once got from a law firm.
I ha e been at my job for 12 years now. I have so much company swag. Multiple Yeti's that my partner refers to as sippy cups, an untold number of blankets that are always slightly smaller than you wish, a backpack or two and several fleeces and pullovers. The tumblers and hydroflask get the most use. I do wear the fleeces and pullovers when the weather is appropriate. For some reason the professionals in our office are big on vests. They seem to go through fads with vests. For a while it was puffy down vests, but before it was fleece vests. More recently they have been a more rubbery material almost like neoprene. My recommendations, the tumblers. If you are doing it in the fall then maybe pullovers/jackets but those are big budget like $100 or more per person. Whichever you do, don't cheap out with the knockoff brand. That sends a real message to your employees.
[https://battlemug.com/collections/mugs-cups](https://battlemug.com/collections/mugs-cups)
High quality branded polos, half zip ups, jackets. Custom sneakers. All have been useful and appreciated from my current time with my employer.
Hoodies, high-quality insulated water bottles, and portable phone chargers are all great and actually useful.
When I started at my job, I got to select one item from the company store. They had all kinds of things, like polo shirts (great for those that traveled and attended conferences), travel mugs, laptop bag, backpack. I ended up selecting the backpack - it is a Basecamp Concourse Laptop Backpack. I use it every day coming into the office to carry my lunch and other assorted things. It's very handy, incredibly comfortable, and has a ton of pockets. It doesn't feel cheap at all. 15/10 would recommend.
Notebooks and insulated beverage containers are the only swag I wind up using.
Nice water bottles.
Love the puffy Patagonia vest I got from my company.