Key Takeaways

I walked into the New York International Auto Show by mistake and found a masterclass in branded merch, with Hyundai and Ford winning and Corvette’s merch hurting. Great swag tells a story and translates your brand essence into something people want to wear, use and show off, so ask whether someone who doesn’t use your product would still wear it.

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I thought I was heading to a wholesome dog rescue event last weekend. Plot twist: I walked into the New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center instead. So, no rescue pup—but what I did find was something equally thrilling: some of the best (and worst) branded merch in the game.

Turns out, every major car brand had a dedicated merchandise section. And for someone who lives and breathes brand expression through swag, this was an unexpected masterclass in what makes branded merch work—or flop.

Let’s talk about Hyundai. Their “Never Just Drive” collection was a standout. This wasn’t just a logo printed on a t-shirt. It was a full-blown vibe—stylish, modern, and perfectly aligned with the identity of their latest vehicles. The colors, fonts, and cuts all screamed design-forward thinking. It felt like lifestyle merch, not just marketing collateral. It’s the kind of custom swag that builds brand affinity because it doesn’t feel like traditional swag at all.

Then there was Corvette. And, well… it hurt. Their merchandise felt like it was unearthed from a conference swag closet circa 2004. We’re talking dated polos, bland mugs, and zero storytelling. Their cars are sleek and high-performance, but their merch was giving “freebie at a dealership service desk.” When your branded gear doesn’t reflect the power and polish of your product, you’re missing a golden opportunity to build connection and credibility.

Ford, on the other hand, absolutely surprised me. Their merch was retro in the best way—clean graphics, bold throwback fonts, and a trendy color palette that felt current but nostalgic. Everything looked wearable. Not in a “corporate branding” way, but in a genuinely cool, “where’d you get that?” kind of way. I don’t even drive a Ford, but I’d 100% rock their hats. That’s the power of branded merchandise done right—it makes outsiders want in.

What Did This Merch Field Trip Prove?

What this little merch field trip proved to me is simple: Great swag tells a story. It’s not just about stamping your logo on a hoodie or keychain. The best branded merch translates your brand essence into something people actually want to wear, use, and show off.

Whether you’re in the automotive industry or building a niche service brand, your promotional products should serve as extensions of your brand personality. If your gear is forgettable, it won’t spark loyalty. But if it’s thoughtful, on-trend, and genuinely cool? You’re not just giving away swag—you’re creating advocates.

So next time you’re designing your company’s merch, ask yourself: would someone who doesn’t even use your product still want to wear it? If the answer is yes, you’re doing something right.

Have You Seen Surprisingly Great Branded Swag Lately?

And hey—sometimes the best brand inspiration shows up when you’re least expecting it. Even at an auto show you wandered into by mistake.

Seen any surprisingly great branded swag lately? Drop it in the comments—I’m always on the hunt for merch worth talking about.

FAQ

What did I learn at the New York International Auto Show?

That every major car brand had a merchandise section, and it was a masterclass in what makes branded merch work or flop.

Which brands won and which flopped?

Hyundai’s “Never Just Drive” collection was a standout, and Ford’s retro merch surprised me. Corvette’s merch felt like it was unearthed from a conference swag closet circa 2004.

What question should I ask about my own merch?

Would someone who doesn’t even use your product still want to wear it? If the answer is yes, you’re doing something right.

Learn more about the auto show: Wikipedia — New York International Auto Show

Key Takeaways

Let’s be real for a second: If your swag is just a logo slapped on something—congrats. You didn’t create a marketing tool. You created clutter. 😬

We want your branded merch to feel like your brand in real life, so people say “Wait—I love this… and it’s branded?!”

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What Is The Problem with Boring Branded Swag?

We’ve all seen it before:
🧢 A t-shirt with your company logo—meh.
📝 A pencil with your website URL—yawn.
☕ A coffee mug with your branding—straight to the landfill.

Let’s call it what it is: forgettable promotional merch that no one actually wants to use.

But here’s the thing: Your brand? It’s not forgettable. It’s bold. Magnetic. Strategic.

So why is your custom merch sending mixed signals?

Good Swag Is a Brand Extension—Not an Afterthought

Your branded merchandise should feel like your brand, in real life.
It should live on someone’s desk, show up in their weekend outfit rotation, or make it into their daily coffee ritual.

That kind of merch isn’t just cool—it builds connection. And that’s the real ROI of great swag marketing.

Before you hit reorder on those stress balls and cheap pens, ask yourself: 💡 Would your dream client actually wear this? Use this? Brag about this? If the honest answer is “ehhh”… Let’s rethink your merch strategy.

From Forgettable to Unmissable: Strategic Branded Merch That Converts

At its best, company swag doesn’t just promote your business—it enhances your brand identity. We believe in creating branded merch that makes people say: “Wait—I love this… and it’s branded?!” That’s not just a giveaway item. That’s brand storytelling—in tote bag form.

Ready to Elevate Your Swag Game?

If you’re staring into your desk drawer and realizing it’s full of junky promo items no one uses… You’re not alone. But you can do better. Actually—you deserve better. Because the right custom promotional products don’t end up in the trash. They end up in your audience’s lives.

✨ Let’s make your swag something people are proud to rep.
Something they’ll keep, use, and talk about.

🧠 Curious about how to turn your branded merch into a true brand asset?
Drop your questions or share your merch fails in the comments 👇

Key Takeaways

Erewhon sells more than $19 celery juice and raw milk, it sells an identity, and its merch is designed to tell the world “I’m part of this culture.” If you’re building a brand with community in mind, you might be one great sweatshirt away from cult-like brand loyalty, so make your brand wearable.

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When your grocery store sells $19 celery juice and raw milk, it’s not just a place to shop—it’s a brand experience. And yes, Erewhon—the ultra-luxury Los Angeles health market—sells merch. But this isn’t your average tote bag with a logo. It’s giving: “I’m looking for a man in finance” energy. 👀

The Power of Branded Swag That Feels Like Status

Erewhon doesn’t just sell groceries. It sells an identity. A vibe. A lifestyle.

And the branded swag? It’s designed to tell the world: “I’m part of this culture.”

From sleek logo hoodies to minimalist water bottles, everything is intentional. It’s not just about putting a name on a shirt—it’s about building a sense of belonging.

When Does Swag Become a Badge of Community?

Here’s the thing about great branded merchandise:
When your brand identity is strong, merch doesn’t feel like marketing—it feels like access. Like a secret club, only it’s hiding in plain sight. Wearing Erewhon gear doesn’t say, 🛒 “I shop here.” It says, ✨ “I belong here.”

This is the holy grail of company swag marketing: turning your followers into fans, and your customers into walking billboards—unironically.

Lessons from Erewhon: Brand Loyalty, Unlocked

Erewhon’s merch is a masterclass in brand strategy. They’ve created high-demand promotional merchandise by leaning into what makes them different: exclusivity, wellness, and aesthetic minimalism.

If you’re building a brand with community in mind? You might be one great sweatshirt away from cult-like brand loyalty. Because people don’t just want to support brands anymore. They want to represent them.

Want to Build Swag People Actually Want to Wear?

If you’re looking to create branded merch that sparks conversation and builds belonging, start by asking:

• What does our merch say about our brand?
• Does our swag reflect the energy of our community?
• Would our audience wear this proudly?

Make your brand wearable—and watch your community grow.

💬 So, why do you think Erewhon has such a cultural grip right now?
Is it the wellness obsession? The scarcity mindset? The $26 smoothies?
Drop your thoughts below 👇

FAQ

What is Erewhon?

The ultra-luxury Los Angeles health market, where groceries come with an identity, a vibe, and a lifestyle. And yes, it sells merch.

Why does Erewhon’s merch work?

When your brand identity is strong, merch feels like access, like a secret club hiding in plain sight. It says “I belong here.”

What should I ask about my own merch?

What does our merch say about our brand? Does our swag reflect the energy of our community? Would our audience wear this proudly?

Key Takeaways

🧠 Be strategic.
🫶 Be intentional.
💥 Be bold in creating swag that actually means something.

Because great branded merch isn’t about being seen.
It’s about being remembered.

Need help designing merch your audience actually wants to wear?
Let’s create something unforgettable. ✨

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Why Does Most Branded Merch Miss the Mark?

Let’s be real: Most branded merch = logos slapped on junk.

✨ That’s not strategy. That’s clutter.

If your branded merchandise isn’t being worn, used, or loved — it’s not working. And that’s because so many brands are stuck in an outdated swag mindset: bulk-ordering cheap products, adding a logo, and calling it a day.

But real swag strategy? That’s a whole different game. It’s about building connection, not just boosting brand recognition.

Great Branded Merch Reflects Your Brand’s Vibe and Values

When your swag reflects who you are and what you stand for, it becomes something your audience wants to keep around. Thoughtfully designed merch should:

• Reinforce your brand identity
• Reflect your company culture
• Speak directly to your ideal customer
• Build a lasting emotional connection

Branded merch isn’t just about visibility — it’s about value.

Printing Logos on Junk? That’s a Missed Opportunity.

If you’re investing in merch, go beyond the basics. Ask yourself:

• Would my ideal customer wear this hoodie in public?
• Would they use this water bottle at the gym, on a hike, or at work?
• Does this product tell a story about who we are and what we stand for?

Because the best branded swag doesn’t end up in the junk drawer.
It lives in your customer’s daily life — and reminds them why they love your brand.

Connection Over Promotion, Always.

Instead of shouting your logo from the rooftops, let your merch speak with your people, not at them. Let it carry a message, a movement, a shared mindset.

Think of brands that nail this approach:

• Nike – Performance, empowerment, sleek design.
• Peloton – Community, commitment, active lifestyle.
• Spiritual Gangster – Intention, spirituality, elevated design.
• Stanley – Function meets trend. Utility becomes identity.

These brands understand that swag is an extension of the experience they offer. It’s branding that breathes — and it builds loyalty.

FAQ

Why does most branded merch miss the mark?

Most branded merch is logos slapped on junk, from brands stuck in an outdated swag mindset of bulk-ordering cheap products, adding a logo, and calling it a day.

What should thoughtfully designed merch do?

It should reinforce your brand identity, reflect your company culture, speak directly to your ideal customer, and build a lasting emotional connection.

Which brands nail this approach?

Nike, Peloton, Spiritual Gangster, and Stanley, because they treat swag as an extension of the experience they offer.

Key Takeaways

Yes, you read that right—you can now get married at the Las Vegas Taco Bell… complete with wedding-themed Taco Bell swag. 🌮💍. We want your merch to work like Taco Bell’s, tapping into emotion, experience, authenticity and shareability, because brand love is the point.

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Taco Bell Swag: Taking Brand Love to the Altar

I’ve written a lot about Taco Bell merch before, but their sauce-covered bowties, sauce packet garter belts, and even a sauce packet bouquet have officially left me speechless. 🤯 I mean, talk about commitment—Taco Bell is going ALL IN on branded merchandise, and honestly, I’m both impressed and slightly covering my eyes in disbelief. 😆

The Cult-Like Devotion to Taco Bell (Yes, It’s Real)

I didn’t fully grasp the absolute devotion some people have for Taco Bell until I watched Love is Blind this season and saw that one of the main contestants had “TACO BELL” tattooed inside her lower lip. Now, that’s brand loyalty. 🔥

And Taco Bell knows it. They’ve built a brand that people love with their whole hearts—and they’re creating branded merchandise to complete that love story.

What Does This Mean for Branded Merch?

Taco Bell’s wedding swag proves that merch isn’t just about slapping a logo on a T-shirt. The best branded merchandise taps into: ✅ Emotion – It makes fans feel connected to the brand ✅ Experience – It creates moments people will never forget ✅ Authenticity – It aligns with what customers already love ✅ Shareability – It’s unique enough that people have to post about it.

Taco Bell is setting a gold standard for brand engagement through merch—and if your brand has a passionate audience, there’s definitely a way to create swag they’ll obsess over.

Would You Say “I Do” at Taco Bell?

What do you think—would you (or someone you know) tie the knot at a fast-food wedding chapel? And are any of my followers Taco Bell fanatics? I need to hear your stories!

Key Takeaways

Want to know the one swag item people were shoving each other to get their hands on at Expo West last week? The answer might surprise you ⤵️ (Plus, there’s a major lesson for you at the end!)

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Meet Belgian Boys (and Their Irresistible Swag)

Have you heard of Belgian Boys? (I hadn’t—until I saw their swag.)

They’re a cheerful, joyful, happy brand that makes pancakes and waffles, and their branding is so colorful and fun it practically glows with happiness. Their marketing makes you feel like their goodies will coat you in ✨ glitter ✨ on the inside.

So, it’s no surprise they knocked it out of the park at Expo West with one standout piece of swag: 💖 A BRIGHT PINK Puffy Tote Bag 💖

People were absolutely salivating over it. 🤤

Why Was This Swag A Showstopper?

My friend on the inside (Amy Davis, thanks for the scoop!) told me that people mowed each other down to get their hands on this bag.

That’s the power of smart, strategic branded merch—when it’s done right, people will literally chase it down.

What Does This Mean For YOUR Brand?

Here’s the big takeaway for you: 👉 You can (and should) create the kind of swag that people are tripping over themselves to grab. And guess what? It’s easier than you think.

Branded merch is more than just slapping a logo on a tote bag. The best swag is:

• Useful (people want to use it daily!)
• Unique (it stands out from the crowd)
• On-Brand (it reinforces your message and identity)
• High-Quality (so it feels like a treat, not a throwaway)

Ready to Create Buzz-Worthy Branded Swag?

Now, tell me—how many people would you take down to get that pink puffy tote? 😉

Also, have you heard of Belgian Boys before? Because now I’m eager to taste their goodies!

Key Takeaways

The big business wins you see all over social media are often a big fat lie, and they set a ridiculous standard for new entrepreneurs. We build brands that last instead, using branded merch for visibility, loyalty, organic marketing and credibility, because slow and steady is the way to grow.

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You know those BIG business wins you see all over social media? Here’s the dirty secret about them:

They’re (often) a big fat lie. And they’re doing a HUGE disservice to entrepreneurs everywhere by setting a “standard” of success based on smoke and mirrors.

Sure, maybe they did:

• Earn $80K in a month
• Gain 3K new followers a day
• Sell tens of high-ticket offers in a day
• Get 30 new clients from one post

(Probably, they didn’t—but that’s another story.)

What They’re Not Telling You

Let’s say the success stories are true. Here’s what they’re not telling you:

• How much money they’re spending on ads
• How many staff members they have helping them
• How many failures came before their success
• The business connections they leveraged to fuel their growth

There’s a crapton happening behind the scenes. But when you’re a new business owner, you might think you’re failing if you’re not seeing these same massive wins.

That’s a ridiculous standard. Slow and steady is the way to grow at the beginning of your business journey.

How To You Build a Sustainable Brand—Not Just a Viral Moment?

Instead of chasing social media illusions, focus on real, lasting brand recognition—and this is where branded merch and swag come in. A strong business isn’t built on vanity metrics; it’s built on community, credibility, and consistency.

How Can Branded Merchandise Help You Grow Your Business The Right Way?

• Brand Visibility: High-quality branded swag (like apparel, drinkware, and accessories) keeps your business top-of-mind for customers.
• Customer Loyalty: People love repping brands they believe in. Thoughtful, useful merch turns casual customers into loyal fans.
• Organic Marketing: Unlike paid ads that disappear, branded merch is a walking advertisement that keeps your brand in circulation.
• Business Credibility: A well-designed merch collection adds professionalism and authority to your brand, making you look more established.

Don’t Buy Into the Hype—Build a Business That Lasts

Forget the overnight success stories. The real winners are the entrepreneurs who focus on long-term brand growth rather than momentary hype.

That’s why I was thrilled to discuss this (and more) with Women On Topp for their latest piece, “What I Wish I Had Known My First Year in Business: Leading Women Entrepreneurs Share.”

Thanks to Dreamers & Doers® for the opportunity!

And if you’re ready to grow your business authentically, let’s talk about how branded merch can help you make a lasting impact.

FAQ

How can branded merchandise help me grow the right way?

It gives you brand visibility, customer loyalty, organic marketing and business credibility.

Where did I share these ideas?

With Women On Topp, for their piece “What I Wish I Had Known My First Year in Business: Leading Women Entrepreneurs Share,” thanks to Dreamers & Doers®.

Key Takeaways

Your team needs branded merch too: high-quality, stylish swag can boost morale, increase brand loyalty and create a strong sense of belonging. It gives remote and hybrid employees the team-colors effect of a sports uniform, turns them into walking brand ambassadors outside of work and shows you value them, especially when they choose their own designs and styles.

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Branded merchandise isn’t just for customers—your team needs it too! Investing in high-quality, stylish company swag can boost morale, increase brand loyalty, and create a strong sense of belonging. Here’s why your business should prioritize team swag today:

1️⃣ Strengthen Team Connection in a Remote World

In today’s remote and hybrid work environments, your employees may struggle to feel connected to the larger team. Think about sports teams—what’s the one thing they all have in common? Team colors and uniforms!

Providing your employees with branded merch, like custom hoodies, T-shirts, or hats, can help create a sense of unity, even when they’re working from different locations. When everyone wears your company’s swag, it reinforces team spirit and makes employees feel part of something bigger.

2️⃣ Build Brand Loyalty and Identity Outside of Work

When your team members proudly wear or use your company’s swag in their everyday lives, they’re not just representing your brand—they’re strengthening their emotional connection to it. Whether they’re sipping coffee from a branded tumbler, carrying a custom tote, or rocking a stylish company hoodie, they become walking brand ambassadors.

Branded merchandise also serves as a subtle yet powerful form of advertising. Every time an employee wears your merch out in public, they’re increasing brand visibility and sparking conversations about your business.

3️⃣ Show Employees You Care

Providing employees with high-quality, cool swag isn’t just about marketing—it’s about appreciation. Thoughtful, well-designed merch shows your team that you value them and their contributions. Giving them the freedom to choose from different designs and styles makes the experience even more meaningful. When employees feel seen and appreciated, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to your company’s mission.

Ready to Elevate Your Team’s Swag?

The Elevate Virtual Business Solutions team (shoutout to Ashley Carlson! 😘) is already rocking their awesome branded merch—does your team have theirs yet? If not, it’s time to step up your swag game!

What’s your go-to piece of company merch? Let us know in the comments!

Key Takeaways

Choose trade show giveaways by goal: brand recognition or lead generation. Mints, pens and sticky notes get your name seen but won’t necessarily build relationships or generate leads, and I’d never print a stress ball. For lead generation, a print-on-demand shop attracts high-intent leads and cuts waste:

•  Create a print-on-demand shop of stylish merch people want to wear.

•  Hand out postcards with a QR code offering a free hat, t-shirt or tote, with booth staff wearing the merch.

•  Capture leads at checkout when people opt in to your mailing list.

•  No shop? Offer a free course, consultation or exclusive interview as a lead magnet.

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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 Does This Giveaway Strategy Work?

✅ 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! 😆

FAQ

What should I print for my trade show giveaways?

First decide whether you want brand recognition or lead generation. For brand recognition, stick to small, practical items like mints, pens, and sticky notes.

How do I generate leads with merch at a trade show?

Create a print-on-demand shop, hand out postcards with a QR code offering a free branded item, and capture leads at checkout when visitors opt in to your mailing list.

What if I can’t set up a print-on-demand store?

Offer a free course, a consultation, an exclusive interview, or another high-value lead magnet that directs traffic to your website.

Key Takeaways

Dr. Sandra Lee’s merch shop has clever, fun designs, but the design execution feels chaotic. I’d fix it with three changes:

•  Kick the design up a notch.

•  Reduce the number of options.

•  Organize the store for a better shopping experience.

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What Does the Dr. Pimple Popper Merch Shop Already Do Well?

Props to Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) and her Skin Physicians and Surgeons team for having a merch shop—there are plenty of clever and fun designs here! But as with any branded swag collection, there’s always room for improvement.

Here’s how I’d refine the shop to make it even better:

1️⃣ Kick the Design Up a Notch 💥

While the merch is creative, the design execution could use some polish and consistency. Right now, it feels a bit chaotic with:

🚨 Too many different fonts clashing on designs

🚨 Too many contrasting styles that lack cohesion

A streamlined aesthetic would make the merch feel more professional, wearable, and on-brand—instead of looking a bit, well, on the nose (like… a pimple).

2️⃣ Reduce the Number of Options 👕🎽👚👔

Variety is great, but too many choices can lead to shopper fatigue. Right now, the store offers 34+ designs—which is likely overwhelming for fans.

Instead, a curated collection of 5-6 standout designs would be more impactful, helping shoppers easily find the best-selling, most-loved pieces.

3️⃣ Organize the Store for a Better Shopping Experience 🛍️

Currently, similar designs are scattered throughout the shop, making it harder for customers to browse. For example:

🔹 The “I’d Rather Be Watching Dr. Pimple Popper” tee comes in four different styles, but they’re not grouped together.

A more structured layout—grouping similar items together—would make the store feel more intuitive and enhance the customer experience.

Would You Wear Dr. Pimple Popper Merch? 🤔

What’s your take on the Dr. Pimple Popper merch collection? Are you a fan of these designs? Let me know in the comments!

(And let’s be honest… if you watch just one video, your feed is never going to be the same again. 😳)