As we get a jump start on the new year and put 2020 behind us, let’s look forward to what’s coming in 2021. How has marketing evolved from a year ago? Will we see the return of traditional promo items? Is PPE sticking around non-medical industries permanently? Although there still lies some unknown to these questions, we are optimistic for what is to come this year!

Check out the top 5 promotional product trends to look for in 2021

1. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

The PPE game is expected to remain strong, especially in the first half of 2021. Safety will continue to remain the number one priority for businesses – protecting both their employees and customers. By using customized safety products for promotion, companies can stay in front of the market as a trusted brand.

Face coverings and customized masks may even have a place here to stay permanently as they become another major branding opportunity. Dye Sublimated Masks are a great way to incorporate totally custom artwork into uniforms, work gear, giveaways, retail accessories and more.

Touch tools are a hot new item that offer yet another way to prevent the spread of germs. It’s a small handy tool that limits contact with doors, elevator buttons, keypads, mailboxes, locks, etc. It easily hooks to a key ring or can be thrown into a purse so that it is easily accessible when consumers are needing it out and about.

2. Work from Home

As some companies are instituting an indefinite work from home policy, and temporary mobile workspaces are becoming more permanent, it’s more important than ever to stay connected to your remote employees. Boost morale by showing your employees appreciation with a logo’d Bluetooth speaker, custom ear pods, or a personalized power bank charger. Promote self-care with branded products like a leather manicure set, water bottle with your logo, and journal notebook. Whatever you decide, your employees will feel that extra love receiving their surprise custom swag.

3. Kitting

Kits, swag bags, gift bundles, a party in a box – whatever you call them, these came in HOT at the end of 2020, and will continue to trend for 2021. From work from home kits to house warming kits; custom tech kits to picnic in the park kits; crafting individual branded bundles to send to customers, employees or prospects is another great way to keep connected. Browse our website to find a kit for any occasion. Our customer service team can even help you distribute each customized kit via drop shipping for a flat fee!

4. Sustainability

Going beyond just “green” products and giving your customers sustainable, functional items is growing in significance. Sustainable business practices are becoming increasingly important to the end consumer. One sustainable material promotional product distributors have embraced is wheat straw as an alternative to plastic. Benefits of wheat straw include that it is fully biodegradable, takes less energy than traditional plastic to produce, and farmers can sell the byproducts (initially a waste product) for an additional source of income. Adding your logo to a wheat straw tumbler or food container will show your outward commitment to sustainable goods and practices!

5. Traditional Promos

As the economy and businesses continue to open up, you will start seeing more traditional promotional items making a comeback. Personalized pens, logo’d t-shirts, custom stress balls and branded mugs are promotional product staples that will continue strong in 2021. You are also likely to see more customized drawstring backpacks and tote bags as events start up again. Additionally, you’ll find promo basics like logo’d water bottles and personalized writing instruments in kits like University Welcome Packages or Virtual Event Swag Bags.

How has your promotional product marketing strategy has changed from last year? And what items are you looking forward to customizing with your logo this year? Are you following any of the mentioned 2021 trends? Let us know in the comments!

If you need help deciding on your perfect promo for 2021, browse our website, or contact our customer service team at 800-338-7996 for the latest customized product ideas.

The post Promotional Product Trends 2021 appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

What is wheat straw?

Wheat straw is an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. It comes from the byproduct leftover from a wheat harvest – the dry stalk residue found after the grain is harvested. Common straw is typically a waste product, but throughout the years we have found additional uses for it, such as animal feed, bedding, thatched roofs, and now an alternative to plastic.

How is wheat straw made?

Basically, different components of the wheat straw are broken down to create polymers. These polymers are naturally formed, in contrast to plastic polymers which are artificially created. The polymers form a plastic-like substance which can mold into items like promotional cups, plates and straws.

Executive Advertising Customized Holiday Gifts

Wheat Straw Features

• Wheat straw is non-allergenic, BPA free, and meets FDA requirements, so it is safe for everyone.
• There are no toxins added to increase the strength of this material, the natural fibers make it strong and sturdy.
• These items are microwave and freezer safe, and can handle hot liquids up to around 200°F.
• Wheat straw will not trap odors or produce mold.
• The products created from wheat straw are also premium food grade.

Benefits of Wheat Straw

• Wheat straw is fully biodegradable.
• It takes less energy to produce than traditional plastic since it is a natural substance.
• The material can be melted down to make new products again and again.
• Wheat farmers can sell the byproducts for an additional source of income.

Is wheat straw gluten free?

In short: Yes! Although the name contains the word “wheat,” wheat straw does not contain any grain, and therefore no gluten. So if you have a gluten allergy, no worries– you can safely use and reuse these gluten-free items.

Sustainable Promotional Products

Wheat straw has become more and more popular because of its ability to create promotional products in an eco-friendly way. Check out our top 3 customizable promos made from wheat straw:

1. Customized 12 oz. Wheat Mug

Upgrade your heavy ceramic mug to a light weight biodegradable wheat mug. These are microwave-safe…incase you need to reheat after one too many morning interruptions. They also offer a nice size imprint area to screen print your company’s logo on.

2. Branded 16 oz. Wheat Travel Tumbler

Bring your drink on the go – hot or cold – in this sustainable custom tumbler. You have two custom location options to print your artwork on: the tumbler itself or on the colored band.

3. Custom Buildable Wheat Straw Kit in Travel Case

Whether you are on a quest to save our oceans or trying to reduce unnecessary waste, a portable customized straw kit is the best way to set a green example, while getting your brand name out into the world.

Want to browse more green and reusable promotional items? Shop all of Executive Advertising’s eco-friendly custom products on our website today.

The post What is Wheat Straw Plastic? appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

The Only Guarantee in 2020, is That There Are No Guarantees

The holiday season is no different – you can count on changes happening here too. Expect extra hustle and bustle this time of year, particularly when you are mailing or waiting for a package. With major logistics companies and carriers like UPS, FedEx and USPS already shipping at near capacity, no delivery timeframe is guaranteed. Now, factor in holiday shipping.

Because of increased delivery volume and staffing shortages due to COVID, the major carriers have suspended any delivery guarantees. UPS stopped its service guarantee in March, and this is still in effect. FedEx put a halt to its money-back guarantee for their services until further notice. The United States Postal Service extended their Priority Mail and First-Class commitments by an extra day back in April. And it’s reported that up to 7 million packages a day between Thanksgiving and Christmas could face possible delay during this holiday shipping period.

Don’t Get Your Holiday Shipping Caught in Shipageddon

According to a holiday research survey by Accenture, 77% of shoppers still want purchases delivered directly to their homes. Most consumers have been understanding when it comes to product availability and transit times over the past 7 months, but patience is starting to diminish. Supply chains are now racing to ensure they can meet the holiday demand during this peak season.

As a consumer, to avoid the inevitable Shipageddon, the answer is simple: SHOP NOW! But seriously, don’t wait until the eleventh hour to order your employees their branded holiday promos or pick out custom Executive Gifts for your customers.

Shop Now, So We Can Ship Early

Let’s work together to ensure your customized promotional gifts arrive before the end of the year! As you do your part to order now (or early as possible), we will do everything we can to get your logo’d gifts shipped out ASAP. Executive Advertising is helping to mitigate this holiday shipping situation by working with our supply chain and have created a list of customized products that, although we cannot promise transit times, we are offering expanding ground shipping services for: Customized Gifts with Expanded Holiday Shipping Services for 2020.

Executive Advertising Customized Holiday Gifts

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Depending on where you live, many restaurants are looking for creative ways to extend their outdoor seating season, because, well, #COVID. Since most indoor dining rooms are still not able to operate at 100% capacity, establishments are investing in propane heaters and temporary outdoor coverings, online ordering and carry out options, and now even snuggly sweaters and custom blankets!

(BYOB)lanket

With this BYOBlanket initiative, restaurants are creating cozy fall and winter friendly outdoor seating areas and encouraging their customers to bring their own “going-out” throw.

If you are a restaurant owner, do not miss this major branding opportunity! Provide your customers with their go-to outdoor blanket customized with your logo. You’ll help keep them warm during this chilly part of the year, while they wear your restaurant draped over their shoulders!

Check out these top trending outdoor custom blankets:

Sherpa Blanket
With a smooth soft knit fabric on one side and cozy fleece texture on the other side, Sherpa blankets are perfect for keeping you warm and snuggly on a chilly winter night! These blankets will look high-end when embroidered with your logo, making it the perfect holiday promotional gift. If not in use, these customized blankets make a great accessory draped across any couch or bed during the colder months.

Travel Foldable Blanket
Packing light is becoming an essential trend where ever you are headed. Having a light-weight comfy blanket in a convenient bag is great for hiking, camping and road trips. Most of us are not traveling by plane in 2020, however if you find yourself having to catch a flight you will want to bring your own blanket! The carrying case on foldable blankets will typically feature a large imprint area to show off your company’s logo.

Roll Up Blanket
A blanket that rolls up into its own carrier makes it an easily portable and adventure-ready companion. Bring it with you on the go or keep it in your car for emergencies. With a Roll Up Blanket, since your logo is imprinted near the handle, it will always be attached to the blanket and visible for everyone to see!

Plaid and Buffalo Check Blanket
Custom roll up blankets with a lining and water resistant backing are a must-have for outdoor use. Add a plaid or buffalo check pattern and you have the perfect picnic blanket for a family outing or romantic lunch date! Your logo, featured in the large imprint area, will automatically be associated with the great memories made with this blanket.

Stadium Seat Cushion Blanket
You’ll get dual use from a customized stadium seat that easily converts from a seat cushion to blanket. Avoid sitting on hard surfaces during any sporting event, and if the temperature drops the blanket will literally have you covered. Your logo will be featured on the exterior of the cushion to and from games and during a favorite team’s victory.

Curious how your logo will look on one of these blankets? Request a free mockup on our website! Our artists will send over a virtual proof showing your logo featured on the blanket of your choice.

The post BYOB Takes on a Different Meaning this Season appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

As we enter the 4^th quarter of this year, that is no exception – businesses must adapt to the way holidays are celebrated. Have you thought about how your business is spreading cheer to your employees during the holidays this year? That may mean planning a virtual corporate gathering, hosting an outdoor socially distanced event – or shipping a holiday swag bag straight to their home office!

What is a holiday swag bag?

We like to call it a party in a box – it can also be described as a collection of curated promotional products or employee appreciation gifts that are personalized with your company’s logo.

These are not just branded holiday gifts for employees, this is a totally new experience for your work from home staff – a surprise swag bag they get to unwrap at the end of the year.

The best part is, to build your own remote employee swag kit, all you really have to do is choose the items – the rest can be taken care of by your promotional products vendor; from the printing and assembly, to even drop shipping each package directly to your employee’s doorstep.

Follow these 5 steps to create your ultimate holiday swag bag:

1. Set a budget.
   • Decide how much you are willing to dedicate per employee and stick to it. Remember this amount will cover the swag bag itself, the promos inside, art set-up charges, tax, and shipping. At Executive Advertising, our set-up fees are always free! That means more dollars in your budget to spend on your employees. An average starting point for a holiday swag bag is $30-40 per person.
2. Determine the number of items.
   • Too few items, and your employees will be left feeling underwhelmed and underappreciated. Too many items, and your budget may start to spread too thin. Our recommendation is putting between 4-6 items inside your custom holiday appreciation kits.
3. Choose your bag.
   • How do you want your items to be packaged? We suggest a zippered tote bag or sporty drawstring backpack. Another option is a custom gift box with die cut foam, however, be aware these may increase both your budget and production time.
4. Select your items.
   • Browse a list of eligible items for kitting. Get creative by establishing a theme around your gifts, such as “Self-Care” that includes products like a leather manicure set, water bottle with your logo and journal notebook.
5. Place your order and send in your logo.
   • Contact us for a quote or to place your order. You should also receive an art proof with your logo on each item before it heads to production. As the cherry on top, you can tell your employees “Happy Holidays!” by sending an insert card to be included in each kit.
6. BONUS STEP for the lazy gift giver.
   • Forget about distributing the swag bags yourself — for a flat fee per box, we will drop ship your custom kits directly to each of your employees.

Show your staff that you are grateful for their loyalty and hard work this year by sending these employee appreciation gifts. You will not only end the year on a positive note with these swag bags, but will also be gearing up your WFH team to start out 2021 stronger than ever.

Head to Executive Advertising now to pick out the items for your customized holiday kits, and we will do the rest of the work! Don’t forget to download the holiday swag bag checklist to help build your perfect kit.

The post Holiday Parties are Out, WFH Swag Bags are In appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

Personalized Promos Everyone Needs Now: With all the craziness going on, let’s think of Spring approaching, warmer weather will make us all think of getting our brand out there to advertise on what is popular. What are some promotional products that are popular right now? And that you want to pass out with your company name on them?

A lot of us including businesses are getting spring fever. Businesses want sales to pick up and for sure get there name out there. They can do that by having promotional products from Executive Advertising customized with their name and logo.

Promotional Water Bottles a #1 product your employees want to always have at work. Refill on water all day with our personalized water bottles. Hand these out with your logo, they can take them everywhere. Water Bottles are always needed for hydration at the gym, walking, running and traveling.

Personalized Mini Fans the idea that maybe you haven’t thought of! Promote your brand and pass out logo mini fans to your clients. Help them stay cool and enjoy spring with the promotional mini fan, these are super easy and small to store when on the go!

Get everyone talking about your business by customizing Logo Sunglasses, Executive Advertising is super hot in imprinting your shades just the way you want them. One of the hottest handouts each year is the promo shade! There are new and exciting ways to advertise your business, so view our website for all the new refreshing ideas for spring, spring events and springtime giveaways!

The post Market Your Brand With These Ideas For Spring! appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

2020 Health Advertising Ideas:

Your brand will get the attention it deserves when you pass out imprinted promotional items that consumers can keep each day to use, be healthy and active. Decorating your promos are free with your 1-Color-Free Logo and have no set up fees. Maybe start with branding personalized fitness water bottles, hand them out to consumers with the business name. You’ll get to use them all the time!

Storing fitness items in our logo drawstrings bags will be another great idea of getting the view of the public eye quickly. We have tons and tons of colors in these handy bags.

If you’re at the gym, Health Club or any health facility, you should find supplies of custom hand sanitizer in bottles, pumps or maybe even on the wall, to help with spreading germs.

Any other ideas you might be looking for, check out our website under the health & personal care for ideas that your consumers might like and would be good for your business logo. Our personalized pedometers and even new promotional fitness band, can keep record of your daily activity.

We want you to be inspired by the new year and if being healthy, getting active and promoting your company in doing so is on the to do list this year, then Executive Advertising is the place to start with! Let us know here if we can assist you in any product buying, bulk or customizing your Free logo.

The post Start The New Year Right With Customized Health Promos appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

Businesses will be remembered with a simple advertising mug in hand each day. I know coffee is the first thing on mind each morning, consumers will see the decorated logo everyday they wake up!

 Order bulks of white custom mugs or different colored mugs for your business handouts this holiday season and imprint your company logo for free, with no set ups fees.

We also have two-tone mugs, consider adding your web address for quick view of your business. The branded gift of coffee mugs with a goody inside will make the perfect simple gift!

So don’t wait, personalize your favorite coffee mug choices for seasonal business gifts. People will enjoy their special coffee, tea or hot chocolate during the holidays and defiantly remember you in the new year of 2020!

The post It’s That Time of Year: Tis’ The Season For Customized Business Gifts! appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

It’s CYBER MONDAY at The Executive Advertising: 

We have all of our promotional product discounted today that you must see for your free 1-color business logo with no set up fees! Plus when you make your company order today, you’ll save by entering the coupon code: CYBER2019 at the end of your order! You’ll see your discount in the shopping cart.

Most of our Cyber Monday-Promotional Products are on the 24 Hour Rush, so your customized products will get to you fast! You won’t find these special deals for your business all in one anywhere else but at The Executive Advertising Promotional Products!

Take advantage of this business opportunity and get end of the year advertising promos for your company name at the lowest price of the year! Hurry all end at midnight on this great offer! We have some of most loyal customers and so we want to pay you back with these great deals of this special Cyber Monday!

Need any help on making your decision, placing your discount or any questions on the selection promos, just give our sales team a call and we will be happy to assist you! But don’t forget you get to shop to midnight on these great deals, head to our shopping cart, place your order and add your discount at the end of your cart!

Stock up on these special priced imprinted products for all your advertising needs now and to start the new year of 2020! And we don’t want to forget to wish everyone Happy Holidays and Happy Cyber Monday! Let the Cyber shopping begin!

The post CYBER MONDAY 2019! Promotional Products Specials Today Only! appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.

Halloween Night Safety With Custom Glow Promos: 

Some neighborhoods will be busier than others and we want you all to be prepared to go and have the safety items you need to be safe. The top 2 promotional safety items to use for Halloween night is customized glow sticks that glow neon colors and advertising flashlights.

Of course be sure to wear reflective clothing or have those imprinted glow sticks ready in hand or hanging around your neck that light up neon colors. We even have personalized glow bracelets at a low price of $0.44/each with your free logo.

You’ll be amazed of how many promotional glow items we carry here at The Executive Advertising! Our advertising glow products are fantastic for Halloween but for also glow type events. The 5K glow runs and parties like bachelor and bachelorette parties use marketing glow items.

So Happy Halloween to everyone and have a fun, spooky but extra safe night on the 31st of October! Go ahead and plan now for your big night of dressing up and trick or treating and grab those handy glow sticks, bracelets and other glow promos so you and your brand will be noticed!

The post You Won’t Be Scared With Our Custom Glow Sticks! appeared first on Executive Advertising Promotional Products Blog.