By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

Everyone’s trying to stand out at trade shows with ring lights, wireless chargers, and tech gadgets.

But let’s be honest: no one ever said, “I want to hire this company because of their USB splitter.”

That’s because the job of branded merch isn’t to be a clever giveaway. It’s to be a conversation starter.

Swag as a Story, Not Just a Giveaway

When you hand out branded merchandise, it shouldn’t feel like a throwaway trinket. The right piece of swag sparks curiosity, showcases your brand personality, and leaves people wanting to know more.

Imagine:

• Your brand message printed on a water bottle someone uses daily
• Your company’s personality captured on a tote bag that turns heads
• A tee that makes someone stop and ask, “Wait—what do you do?”

That’s what gets remembered long after the trade show ends.

Forget the Gimmicks

USB splitters. Wireless chargers. Stress balls.

These items usually end up in one of three places: shoved in a drawer, regifted, or tossed in the trash.

Instead of chasing the next gimmick, focus on swag that tells your story.

When branded merchandise reflects your company’s values, humor, or vibe, it doesn’t just take up space—it makes an impression.

Swag That Works

The best branded merch isn’t about cost, size, or tech specs. It’s about connection.

Great trade show swag should:

• Spark a conversation (“Where’d you get that?”)
• Feel useful or delightful (so it’s actually kept)
• Carry your brand message beyond the booth

Your Turn

So tell me: when someone gives you a wireless charger at a trade show—do you throw it out, shove it in a drawer, or actually use it?

(I have an ancient iPhone 13 mini that doesn’t do wireless, so for me it’s 🗑️ all the way.)

👉 If you’re ready to stop handing out gimmicks and start creating branded merch that sparks conversations, let’s chat. At Go To Market – Anti-Boring Branded Merchandise, we help companies design swag people actually want.