By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

We’ve all been there. You attend a conference, onboard with a new company, or join a team retreat—and you’re handed a tote bag or t-shirt with the company logo splashed across it. You smile politely, but inside you’re thinking:

“I’m never wearing this.”

And that right there is the problem.

Branded Merchandise Should Be a Brand Experience

When corporate swag feels cheap, generic, or outdated, it’s not just a design fail. It’s a missed opportunity to connect with your audience in a long-term, meaningful way. Branded merchandise isn’t just a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s a powerful tool for brand engagement, employee retention, and customer loyalty.

If your branded swag isn’t being worn, used, or shared on social media, you’re not just wasting budget—you’re leaving brand equity on the table.

Raise the Bar on Swag

The best branded merch doesn’t feel like a giveaway. It feels like a gift.
Think about it: your audience should be excited to use your merch. They should reach for your custom tumbler, zip up that soft hoodie, or carry that thoughtfully designed tote bag every week—maybe even every day.

🧢 That’s the bar.

When you stop thinking of swag as a giveaway and start thinking of it as a relationship builder, everything changes.

Swag That Gets Loved—Not Left Behind

Branded merch should be more than a logo on a t-shirt. It should reflect your brand’s values, style, and purpose. Whether you’re launching a new product, welcoming new employees, or thanking loyal clients, your swag should spark joy and foster connection.

Want your branded merchandise to actually be worn and shared?

Focus on quality, intentional design, and relevance. It’s time to think beyond pens and mugs and start investing in pieces your people are proud to show off.

Let’s Be Honest…

What’s the worst piece of company merch you’ve ever gotten? I’ll go first: a neon green race shirt made of cotton that felt like it could exfoliate your skin. We can do better. And your brand deserves better.

Ready to upgrade your swag strategy?
Let’s create branded merchandise people actually want to wear, use, and keep.