One of the most common questions I hear about branded merchandise is: “I need giveaways for my upcoming trade show. What should I print?” Before you make a decision, consider this: Are you looking for brand recognition or lead generation?

Branded Merch for Brand Recognition

If your goal is brand recognition—meaning you want to hand something out to everyone— stick to small, practical items like:

• Mints
• Pens
• Sticky notes
• Other small, useful items that people might keep in their bag

This strategy will get your brand name seen, but it won’t necessarily build relationships or generate leads. It’s also an expensive and often wasteful approach. However, if you insist on printing something for the masses, these are the best options.

(And please, please, please never print a stress ball 😖)

Branded Merch for Lead Generation

If your focus is lead generation, here’s a smarter approach:

1️⃣ Create a Print-on-Demand Shop – Design a collection of trendy, stylish branded merch that people will actually want to wear. Make it cool, creative, and high-quality. (Need help? DM me!)

2️⃣ Print a Postcard with a QR Code – Instead of giving away cheap swag, hand out postcards with a QR code directing people to your online shop. Offer a free branded item like a hat, t-shirt, or tote bag (your choice). Make sure your booth staff is wearing the merch to showcase it.

3️⃣ Capture Leads at Checkout – When visitors redeem their free merch, ask them to opt in to your mailing list. This turns casual trade show attendees into engaged leads who are genuinely interested in your brand.

Why This Giveaway Strategy Works

✅ Quality Over Quantity: Only a small percentage of attendees will redeem the offer, but those who do are high-intent leads—people who want to engage with your business.

✅ Free Advertising: When attendees wear your branded merch, it provides social proof and increases brand visibility—unlike 1,500 mints that disappear in a pocket.

✅ Sustainability Matters: Consumers care about eco-friendly practices. This approach minimizes waste and aligns with their values.

What If You Can’t Set Up a Print-on-Demand Store?

No worries! You can still offer something valuable, like:

• A free course
• A consultation
• An exclusive interview
• Any other high-value lead magnet that directs traffic to your website

Final Thoughts: Make Your Merch Count

Pens and stress balls don’t make sales. But people who opt in for your branded merch are solid leads who are interested in your business.

If you HAD to pick a low-cost giveaway item, what would it be? I’m team mints! 😆